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Delhi’s Hottest Republic Day in Eight Years: What the Unusual January Warmth Means for the City

Delhi Witnesses Hottest Republic Day In 8 Years: Analyzing January’s Unusual Warmth

The nation’s capital, Delhi, marked its warmest Republic Day in eight years, with the mercury reaching 23.7 degrees Celsius, which is notably two degrees warmer than the seasonal average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

To put this in perspective, the high temperature on January 26 back in 2017 was recorded at 26.1 degrees Celsius. Looking ahead, forecasts suggest misty conditions returning on Monday, with daytime temperatures likely peaking at around 23 degrees Celsius, and nighttime lows dipping to roughly 8 degrees Celsius.

Temperatures on January 26 have historically varied significantly. The long-term average maximum temperature since 1991 sits at 22.1 degrees Celsius, yet recent years have generally been cooler. Notably, the maximum temperatures were recorded as 20.6 degrees Celsius in 2024, 17.3 degrees Celsius in 2023, and 16.4 degrees Celsius in 2022.

Explaining the phenomenon, meteorologists highlight a combination of clear skies and dry northwesterly winds contributing to the warmer conditions. “Even in the aftermath of a recent weather disturbance, which brought rain and snowfall to various parts of northwest India, the maximum temperatures in Delhi remained notably unaffected, courtesy of bright sunshine prevailing during the day,” said a weather expert from a private weather agency.

As the weather disturbance shifts, this change is expected to influence wind patterns, decelerating wind speeds and introducing cloud cover. The presence of clouds can trap heat, especially at night, leading to a rise in nighttime temperatures. However, despite these daytime conditions, the nighttime temperatures have been somewhat cooler, with a recent low of 7.2 degrees Celsius, marginally under the norm.

Another bout of western disturbances is anticipated to impact the region by January 28. This is projected to elevate both maximum and minimum temperatures further, with nighttime lows possibly increasing to between 9-11 degrees Celsius and daytime highs ranging between 24-26 degrees Celsius later in the week.

Amid these shifts in temperature, Delhi’s air quality has slipped into the ‘poor’ category, and further degradation is expected. As weather systems continue to evolve, the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pollutants remains a critical area of concern.

The changes being observed this month in Delhi remind us of the dynamic nature of weather systems and the importance of understanding how various factors, from wind patterns to cloud cover, can influence temperature fluctuations.

Such temperature variations, particularly the rise in January this year, underscore the need for vigilant monitoring of weather patterns. These changes are not only a matter of immediate daily concern but also critical when examining long-term climate trends and preparing for more significant fluctuations and the potential impacts of climate change on a global scale.

Ethan Wilder

Ethan Wilder is a conservation photographer and videographer whose lens captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world and the critical challenges it faces. With a focus on wilderness preservation and animal rights, Ethan's work is a poignant reminder of what is at stake. His photo essays and narratives delve into the heart of environmental issues, combining stunning visuals with compelling storytelling. Ethan offers a unique perspective on the role of art in activism, inviting readers to witness the planet's wonders and advocating for their protection.

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