Delhi Sizzles at 41.8°C as Heatwave Continues to Test Residents

There is finally some good news for residents. After arriving later than usual this year, the southwest monsoon has started gaining momentum. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD),

navyagupta517

Jun 29, 2026 - 20:55

Delhi Sizzles at 41.8°C as Heatwave Continues to Test Residents

There is finally some good news for residents. After arriving later than usual this year, the southwest monsoon has started gaining momentum. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), it is expected to spread across a large part of North India over the next five to six days. If the forecast holds, Delhi is likely to receive its long-awaited spell of rain later this week, offering much-needed relief from the relentless heat and humid weather.

Heatwave Relief in Sight, But India's Rainfall Crisis Is Far From Over

However, the relief comes with a worrying backdrop. June 2026 is set to go down as India's fifth-driest June on record, with the country recording over 43% below-normal rainfall. The sharp rain deficit has sparked concerns over water supplies, farming activities, and the overall progress of the monsoon season, even though the expected showers in the coming days are likely to bring much-needed relief from the heat.

Which States Have Seen the Biggest Rainfall Deficit—and Why?

A significant rainfall shortfall has been recorded across almost every part of the country, with some states witnessing an especially severe deficit:

Meghalaya – 82% rainfall deficit

Gujarat – 79% rainfall deficit

Manipur – 71% rainfall deficit

Chhattisgarh – 68% rainfall deficit

Jharkhand – 66% rainfall deficit

Maharashtra – 59% rainfall deficit

Uttar Pradesh – 56% rainfall deficit

Odisha – 52% rainfall deficit

Bihar – 50% rainfall deficit