Record heat of nearly 50 degrees Celsius in the capital of India

The temperature in the capital New Delhi soared to a record high of 49.9 degrees Celsius on May 28, the India Meteorological Department said.

The India Meteorological Department recorded temperatures at two stations on the outskirts of New Delhi, Narela and Mungeshpur, and confirmed "severe heatwave conditions".

Temperatures are expected to remain similarly high on May 29.

In May 2022, areas of New Delhi recorded temperatures as high as 49.2 degrees Celsius, Indian media reported at the time.

India typically experiences high temperatures in the summer. However, years of scientific research have found that climate change is making heat waves longer, more frequent and more intense.

New Delhi authorities have also warned of a water shortage as the capital experiences a severe heatwave, forcing cuts in water supplies to some areas.

The Indian Meteorological Department has warned of the health effects of heat, especially on infants, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.