Unusually Cool August for the Capital
Delhi is heading towards registering its coolest August in more than a decade, with India Meteorological Department (IMD) data confirming that the city has experienced significantly lower temperatures this month compared to recent years. According to the IMD, the average maximum temperature recorded till Saturday stood at 33.2°C, which is the lowest since 2012, when the figure was 33.1°C.
In comparison, August 2024 saw an average maximum temperature of 34.1°C, while August 2023 was even hotter at 35.4°C. This clear downward trend in maximum temperatures has provided some respite to residents accustomed to sweltering late-summer heat.
Minimum Temperature at a Fourteen-Year Low
While daytime highs have moderated, nights have also been cooler than usual. The IMD revealed that the average minimum temperature this August is likely to be the lowest in at least 14 years. Until Saturday, the average minimum was recorded at 25.1°C, surpassing the previous low of 25.7°C in 2024.
On Saturday itself, the Safdarjung weather station — considered representative of Delhi’s overall climate — reported a minimum of 23.8°C, nearly 2.7°C below normal for the season. This drop was notable as it followed Friday’s warmer minimum of 26.2°C.
Rainfall Surpasses Expectations
Delhi’s unusually cool August cannot be discussed without highlighting the heavy rainfall that has lashed the city. With 400.81 mm of rainfall already recorded this month, August 2025 has become the wettest August since 2010. This is significantly higher than the long-period average (LPA) of 233.1 mm, making it one of the standout weather events of the year for the Capital.
Although no major rainfall was recorded on Saturday, the showers on Friday pushed the city’s monthly tally past the milestone. The continuous spells of rain have not only helped lower daytime temperatures but also contributed to the marked dip in night-time readings.
Daily Weather Variations
Weather fluctuations during the past few days have showcased a dynamic monsoon system. On Friday, the maximum temperature dipped to 30.2°C, while Saturday witnessed a rebound to 34.4°C, still marginally below the seasonal norm by 0.1°C. IMD officials noted that such fluctuations are typical during active monsoon spells but emphasized that the overall pattern this year has skewed towards cooler and wetter conditions.
IMD Forecast for Coming Week
Looking ahead, the IMD forecasts a continuation of relatively cool and wet conditions. An official statement said that “generally cloudy skies will persist on Sunday as well, with a few spells of very light to light rain accompanied by thundershowers at most places, and moderate rain at a few locations.”
The weather bureau added that similar conditions are likely to persist throughout the week, with intermittent light rainfall maintaining the subdued temperature trend. Such forecasts suggest that Delhi’s residents may continue to experience a comfortable end to the monsoon month.
Climate Significance of the Cool Spell
Climatologists point out that while individual months cannot define long-term climate change, anomalies such as this August’s cooler and wetter conditions are worth noting. Excess rainfall has played a central role in bringing down the mercury, and it is consistent with a broader trend of erratic monsoon behavior across India in recent years.
Experts also warn that such variations could become more frequent as climate systems respond to changing global patterns. For residents, however, the practical takeaway has been a temporary escape from the oppressive humidity and heat usually associated with late August in Delhi.
A Month to Remember for Residents
For many in the Capital, August 2025 will be remembered not only for its record-breaking rain but also for the pleasant evenings and cooler-than-usual days. The unusual combination of rainfall and reduced temperatures has shifted the narrative from one of heat stress to weather relief.
As September approaches, Delhiites remain hopeful that the trend of moderate temperatures and timely rainfall continues, ensuring both comfort and adequate water replenishment. If IMD projections hold true, this August will stand out in Delhi’s recent meteorological history as a rare and welcome reprieve from the norm.
