Delhi Heatwave: Capital's Power Demand Hits Record High Of 8,647 MW Amidst Scorching Temperatures

Delhi Heatwave: Persistent heatwave has led to record-breaking power demand of 8,647 MW, driven by increased AC usage. The city's peak demand has exceeded 8,000 MW eight times since May 22 due to extreme heat.

New Delhi: Women cover their heads for protection from the scorching sun on a hot summer day, in New Delhi, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'red' alert because of prevailing heatwave conditions in the national capital. ( Image Source :PTI )

Delhi Heatwave: The persistent heat wave gripping the national capital has driven Delhi's peak power demand to a record-breaking 8,647 MW on Tuesday afternoon, according to discom officials. This marks the highest-ever power demand recorded for the city, surpassing the previous peak of 8,302 MW on May 29 this year.

The extreme heatwave, which has caused Delhi's peak power demand to surpass 8,000 MW eight times since May 22, is pushing residents to rely heavily on air conditioning and cooling appliances. According to news agency PTI, a discom official explained, "Air conditioning can contribute to 30-50 per cent of domestic and commercial power consumption." The relentless heat has necessitated increased use of cooling systems, significantly driving up electricity usage.

The State Load Dispatch Centre reported that the peak demand reached 8,647 MW at 3:22 pm on Tuesday. On the same day, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 33.8 degrees Celsius, which is six degrees above the seasonal average. The maximum temperature is expected to settle around 45 degrees Celsius, according to weather department officials, PTI reported.

Red Alert In Delhi Due To Heatwave, Relief Likely From Tomorrow

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had placed the national capital on a 'red' alert for Tuesday, anticipating temperatures to soar to 45 degrees Celsius. The IMD forecast indicated mainly clear skies with heatwave to severe heatwave conditions across many areas in Delhi, along with strong surface winds during the day.

The criteria for declaring a heatwave are met when the maximum temperature in the plains reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius with a departure from normal of at least 4.5 degrees. A severe heatwave is declared if the departure from normal exceeds 6.4 degrees.

The IMD utilises a four-colour code system for weather warnings: green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared), and red (take action).

The forecast suggests some relief starting Wednesday, with the city moving to a 'yellow' alert on Wednesday and Thursday, and a 'green' alert on Friday and Saturday. A fresh western disturbance is expected to approach northwest India, bringing respite from the intense heat.