Delhi is expected to witness a sharp transition in weather conditions beginning May 13, 2026, as the city moves from brief thunderstorm activity toward intense summer heat. Wednesday, May 13 may still experience residual clouds and a slight possibility of light rain or thunderstorms, but temperatures are expected to rise rapidly during the following days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that Delhi could experience severe heatwave-like conditions by the weekend, with temperatures potentially crossing 40°C and touching as high as 47°C by May 18.
Delhi Weekly Weather Forecast (May 13 – May 19, 2026)
According to the provided forecast data, temperatures are expected to steadily increase throughout the week.
| Date | Maximum Temperature | Minimum Temperature | Weather Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, May 13 | 35°C – 40°C | 24°C – 31°C | Partly cloudy with slight chance of light rain or thunderstorm |
| Thursday, May 14 | 37°C – 42°C | 25°C – 33°C | Skies clearing and sunshine returning |
| Friday, May 15 | 38°C – 43°C | 26°C – 33°C | Mainly clear skies with increasing heat |
| Saturday, May 16 | 39°C – 44°C | 26°C – 34°C | Sunny and hot conditions |
| Sunday, May 17 | 40°C – 46°C | 27°C – 34°C | Peak weekend heat with high UV levels |
| Monday, May 18 | 40°C – 47°C | 27°C – 37°C | Predominantly sunny and extremely hot |
| Tuesday, May 19 | 41°C – 44°C | 27°C – 33°C | Continued intense summer conditions |
The forecast clearly shows a rapid rise in daytime temperatures after May 13, with Delhi expected to remain under strong summer conditions through the following week.
Thunderstorm Relief Expected to End After May 13
The “Yellow Alert” issued earlier for rainfall and thunderstorm activity is likely to end after May 13. This means cloud cover will gradually reduce, sunshine intensity will increase, and heat buildup will accelerate from May 14 onward. Weather conditions are expected to stabilize into clear and dry summer patterns once the brief thunderstorm phase ends. According to the forecast trends, the return of full sunshine is expected to push temperatures sharply upward across Delhi and nearby NCR regions.
Heatwave Conditions Likely by Weekend
One of the biggest concerns highlighted in the forecast is the expected heat surge beginning May 14. Maximum temperatures may hover around or exceed 40°C by Sunday, May 17. Temperatures could reach up to 47°C on Monday, May 18. Dry weather conditions will dominate most areas. The rising heat is expected to increase daytime discomfort significantly, especially during afternoon hours. Residents who travel regularly for work, students, outdoor workers, and senior citizens may experience greater heat stress during this period.
UV Levels Expected to Become Very High
According to the provided weather trends, Delhi’s UV index is expected to become “Very High” by the weekend. UV levels may reach around 10. Direct sunlight exposure could become dangerous during peak hours. Afternoon heat may feel even more intense due to RealFeel conditions.
High UV exposure increases the risk of skin irritation, sunburn, fatigue, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. The information emphasizes the importance of protective clothing, hydration, and minimizing unnecessary outdoor activity.
Delhi AQI Remains in Moderate Category
Recent reports place Delhi’s AQI around 157, which falls under the “Moderate” category. Although air quality conditions are not categorized as severe at present, rising temperatures and dry weather could increase dust levels and atmospheric discomfort during the coming days. The combination of heat, dry air, UV exposure, and moderate AQI may create uncomfortable conditions for sensitive groups, including children, elderly individuals, and people with respiratory issues.
Heatwave Safety Guidelines for Delhi Residents
Clothing Recommendations
Light-coloured cotton or linen clothing is recommended. Loose-fitting clothes allow better airflow. Full sleeves can help protect skin from UV rays. Residents should avoid dark clothing, tight outfits, and synthetic fabrics like polyester that trap heat and sweat.
Hydration Advice During Heatwave
Recommended drinks include water, lemonade (Nimbu Paani), chaas, coconut water, and ORS or electrolyte drinks. These beverages help replace salts and fluids lost due to sweating. Residents are advised to avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and high-sugar soft drinks, which may increase dehydration during extreme heat.
Food Guidelines During Extreme Heat
Recommended foods include water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumber, light meals, fresh foods, and curd rice. These foods help maintain hydration and reduce internal body heat. Residents should avoid spicy foods, oily meals, fried snacks like samosas and pakoras, and heavy red meat consumption.
Outdoor Activity Advisory
Residents are advised to stay indoors between 11 AM and 4 PM, use hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas while travelling, and plan outdoor work during early morning or evening hours. People should avoid strenuous exercise, heavy outdoor work, and sports activities during peak sunlight hours.
Emergency Assistance Numbers for Delhi Residents
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| National Emergency Services | 112 |
| Medical Emergency & Disaster Management | 108 |
| Ambulance Services | 102 |
| NDMC Municipal Assistance Helpline | 1533 |
| Mobile Heat Relief Units | 121 |
Authorities Warn Against Leaving Children or Pets in Vehicles
The advisory specifically warns residents never to leave children, pets, or elderly individuals inside parked vehicles. According to the provided information, temperatures inside vehicles can become fatal within minutes during extreme summer conditions. This warning becomes especially important as Delhi’s temperatures approach 45°C and above.
Understanding the Weekend Heat Surge
The forecast suggests that the most intense phase of the heatwave may occur between May 17 and May 19. Several weather factors are contributing to the rising temperatures: clearing skies after thunderstorms, strong sunshine intensity, dry atmospheric conditions, and westerly heat-bearing winds. These conditions are expected to create sustained heat buildup across Delhi.
Why RealFeel Temperatures May Feel Worse
Humidity fluctuations between 14% and 28% may increase “RealFeel” discomfort during afternoons. Even if official temperatures remain around 44°C or 45°C, the actual body experience could feel more intense due to UV exposure, hot winds, surface heat from roads and buildings, and dehydration risk. This is why health officials are emphasizing preventive measures early.
IMD Weather Outlook for Delhi
Residual rain chances may continue briefly on May 13. Heatwave conditions may dominate after May 14. Temperatures could stay above 40°C for multiple days. UV exposure will remain extremely high through the weekend. The weather pattern strongly indicates that Delhi is entering a prolonged summer heat phase.
Conclusion
Delhi is expected to experience a major rise in temperatures between May 13 and May 19, 2026, following the end of brief thunderstorm activity. Temperatures may climb sharply during the week and could touch 47°C by May 18. The IMD has highlighted concerns related to extreme heat, high UV levels, dry weather, and increasing daytime discomfort. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon exposure, wear light clothing, and follow official heatwave safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the temperature forecast for Delhi on May 18, 2026?
A1. Delhi may experience temperatures as high as 47°C on Monday, May 18, 2026, with predominantly sunny and extremely hot conditions.
Q2. When is thunderstorm relief expected to end in Delhi?
A2. The “Yellow Alert” for rainfall and thunderstorm activity is likely to end after May 13, with heat buildup accelerating from May 14 onward.
Q3. What is the expected UV index in Delhi during the weekend?
A3. The UV index is expected to become “Very High” at around 10, making direct sunlight exposure potentially dangerous during peak hours.
Q4. What emergency numbers should Delhi residents save for heatwave assistance?
A4. Key numbers include 108 for medical emergencies, 112 for national emergency services, 102 for ambulance services, and 1533 for NDMC Municipal Assistance.
Q5. What are the recommended drinks during the Delhi heatwave?
A5. Recommended drinks include water, lemonade, chaas, coconut water, and ORS or electrolyte drinks. Alcohol, tea, coffee, and soft drinks should be avoided.