Delhi Witnesses Hottest May in Two Years and Cleanest Air in Five

Delhi faced a range of extreme weather conditions in May as temperatures soared to the highest levels in two years, alongside notably clean air quality—the best in five years. Intense heatwaves hit the city, while nighttime temperatures reached unprecedented highs.

Throughout the month, the average maximum temperature reached 39.7 degrees Celsius, with minimums averaging 25.8 degrees Celsius. From May 18 to 21, parts of the city exceeded 46 degrees Celsius, experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, corroborated by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

While extreme temperatures persisted, Delhi's air quality showed significant improvement, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 161—the lowest since 2021. May's end brought a satisfactory AQI of 85, aided by widespread rain and gusty winds that contributed to dispersing pollutants.

Experts attributed these fluctuations to western disturbances and cyclonic circulations affecting the region, leading to dynamic weather patterns. Despite the forecast of rising temperatures with the onset of June, the city has been spared from further immediate heatwave threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)