The capital city of India, Delhi, has officially marked its hottest day of the year, with maximum temperatures soaring to 31.6 degrees Celsius. This is a notable shift as the chilly winter days have been replaced by the onset of a more intense summer. The minimum temperatures, however, are reported to be around or below average, with areas like Palam recording lows of 11.6 degrees Celsius. Although the days are heating up, the nights have remained cooler than typical, as indicated by recent weather data.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) notes that the rising temperatures this February are unusual for Delhi, where such high readings are rarely seen in mid-month. The increased daytime heat is attributed to stagnant air conditions, which have resulted in clear skies allowing for stronger sunlight during the afternoons. This climatic scenario is expected to persist for the next couple of days, further intensifying the people's experiences of heat in the city.

Meanwhile, the air quality in Delhi continues to be a concern, as the pollution levels remain high, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 258, falling into the 'poor' category. This combination of extreme heat and poor air quality raises significant health concerns for residents, especially for those with pre-existing health issues, as prolonged exposure to such conditions could lead to serious problems. Rain is anticipated following this wave of heat, which might provide temporary relief to residents as they brace for the continuing warm spell ahead.