After a brief spell of rain and wind, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi and predicted a gradual rise in temperatures by 3–4°C till April 18, with strong surface winds expected during the daytime. The maximum temperature is likely to settle around 38°C, the Met office said.

Delhi’s air quality remained in the moderate category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 161.

Heatwave in Gujarat, Rajasthan; rains in Himachal

Meanwhile, a heatwave spell has been forecast in isolated pockets of Rajasthan and Gujarat, along with hot and humid conditions expected along the Gujarat coast, Kerala, and Mahe.

In Himachal Pradesh, an orange alert has been issued as fresh western disturbances are likely to bring heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds reaching 40–50 km/h in districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla on Friday.

Additionally, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and winds of 40–50 km/h in Chamba, Kangra, and Kullu districts on Wednesday and Thursday.

(With inputs from PTI)