New Delhi, India — May 2, 2026
Residents of the national capital are finally experiencing relief from the intense heatwave that gripped the city in April, as recent rainfall has brought down temperatures and improved overall weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that temperatures will remain below seasonal averages in early May, with the possibility of additional rainfall over the next two days.
Rainfall Brings Much-Needed Cooling
Heavy rain and hailstorms in parts of Delhi earlier this week have significantly lowered temperatures across the city. On Friday, the maximum temperature settled at 36.4°C, which is 2.9°C below normal, while the minimum temperature dropped to 22.8°C, about 1.9°C below the seasonal average.
The cooler conditions have provided much-needed respite for residents who had been dealing with soaring temperatures and heatwave conditions just days earlier.
Cloud Cover to Keep Temperatures in Check
The IMD has predicted partly cloudy skies for Saturday, which is expected to limit any sharp rise in temperature. The maximum temperature is likely to hover between 38°C and 41°C, while heatwave intensity is expected to remain subdued.
However, humidity levels may cause mild discomfort during the day. Relief is expected during the evening hours, with light winds likely to improve comfort levels.
Temperature Trends Across Key Areas
Weather stations across Delhi reported temperatures below normal levels:
- Safdarjung: 36.4°C (maximum)
- Palam: 35.1°C
- Lodhi Road: 34.6°C
- Ridge: 34.9°C
- Ayanagar: 35.4°C
This consistent drop across regions highlights the widespread impact of recent rainfall.
Air Quality Remains Moderate
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘moderate’ category.
- AQI at 9 AM: 119
- 24-hour average AQI: 120
AQI Categories (CPCB Standard)
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
Forecast models indicate that air quality is expected to remain in the moderate range over the coming days, supported by favorable weather conditions.
What to Expect Next
Meteorologists suggest that Delhi may continue to experience relatively pleasant conditions in early May, compared to the extreme heat seen in April. The likelihood of intermittent rainfall and cloud cover could further stabilize temperatures.
