New Delhi, May 31: In a pleasant deviation from its usual scorching summer trend, Delhi has recorded a cooler-than-normal May, with no heatwave conditions reported throughout the month. This marks the third time in the last five years that the capital’s temperature has remained below 40°C in May, a month typically known for extreme heat.
Remarkably Mild May
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the average maximum temperature in May 2025 was 37.5°C, nearly 2.5°C below the seasonal norm. On Friday, the maximum temperature recorded at Safdarjung Observatory was just 34.8°C, which is 5.6°C below normal. The minimum temperature stood at 27.3°C, marginally above normal by 0.7°C.
The Ridge area recorded a temperature 8.1°C below normal, while Ayanagar saw a deviation of 7.6°C below the average, indicating widespread cool conditions across the city.
Year-on-Year Comparison
-
2023: Avg. Max Temp – 36.9°C | No heatwave days
-
2022: Avg. Max Temp – 40.0°C | 2 heatwave days
-
2021: Avg. Max Temp – 37.5°C | No heatwave days
-
2024: Avg. Max Temp – 41.7°C | 6 heatwave days
This year’s cooler temperatures, combined with intermittent showers and cloud cover, have completely neutralized the impact of Nautapa, the traditionally hottest nine-day stretch in late May.
Cloud Cover and Light Showers Bring Relief
Delhi witnessed overcast skies throughout Friday, with scattered light drizzles reported in several parts. The combination of cloud activity and occasional rain kept the mercury in check and significantly enhanced daytime comfort levels for residents.
Thunderstorm and Wind Alert for Weekend
The IMD has forecast partly cloudy skies and possible light rain over the weekend.
-
Saturday’s maximum temperature is expected to range between 36°C and 38°C.
-
Winds are likely to blow at 30–40 km/h, with chances of gusts up to 50 km/h, potentially accompanied by localized thunderstorms.
Air Quality in Moderate Range
Thanks to favorable meteorological conditions, Delhi’s air quality has remained consistently clean this month.
-
As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 167 on Friday — falling within the ‘moderate’ category.
-
Similar AQI levels are expected to continue over the next 48 hours, with no significant deterioration anticipated.
Outlook
With the monsoon expected to arrive in Delhi within 10 days, residents may continue to enjoy the relatively mild summer spell. The uncharacteristically pleasant May has brought much-needed comfort to a city often known for its oppressive heat this time of year.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
