Delhi Shivers Through Unprecedented August Chill: Coldest Day in 34 Years 

Delhi experienced its coldest August day in 34 years on Saturday (Aug 10, 2025), with the mercury struggling to reach just 26.4°C amid relentless rain – a stark contrast to the city’s typical oppressive August heat and humidity. This shattered the previous record low maximum of 25.8°C set back on August 28, 1991. The unseasonal chill, driven by persistent monsoon showers, offered residents a surreal and welcome respite, with even the night temperature dipping to a comfortable 23.8°C.

Imagine needing a light layer in peak monsoon! While the cool spell lingers through Sunday (Aug 11), bringing highs of 28-30°C, familiar warmth begins its return next week. By Monday, maximums are expected near 33°C – still moderate for August, but signalling the end of this remarkable, record-breaking cool interlude. For Delhiites drenched in unusual comfort, it was a fleeting, rare gift before summer’s final act.

Delhi Shivers Through Unprecedented August Chill: Coldest Day in 34 Years 

For Delhiites accustomed to August’s oppressive heat and humidity, Saturday felt like stepping into a different season. The capital recorded a startlingly low maximum temperature of 26.4°C, marking the coldest August day in 34 years, as confirmed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). 

What Happened? 

• Record Broken: The previous coldest August day in recent history was on August 28, 1991, when the mercury peaked at just 25.8°C. 

• The Culprit: Persistent, widespread rainfall throughout the day acted as a natural air conditioner, suppressing the sun’s heat and keeping temperatures remarkably low. 

• Night Comfort: The minimum temperature settled at a comfortable 23.8°C, creating an unusually cool day-night range for the peak of monsoon season. 

Why This Feels So Unusual: August is typically synonymous with Delhi’s highest humidity levels and sticky, uncomfortable heat. Enduring a day where the maximum temperature barely crossed 26°C – feeling more like a pleasant pre-monsoon or late September day – is a stark departure from the norm. It’s a reminder of how powerful sustained monsoon systems can be in temporarily reshaping the city’s climate experience. 

The Road Ahead: The IMD forecasts this unexpected cool spell will linger through Sunday (August 11th): 

• Sunday (Aug 11): Max 28-30°C, Min 23-25°C (Still significantly below average). 

• The Shift Begins: Starting Monday (Aug 12th), a gradual return to more typical August weather is expected. 

• Next Week: Maximum temperatures are predicted to climb back towards 33°C, with minimums around 24-26°C. While warmer, this is still below the scorching highs Delhi often sees in August. 

A Fleeting Respite: This record-breaking cool day offers Delhi a rare and welcome break from its usual August furnace. It’s a moment for residents to enjoy open windows, comfortable strolls, and perhaps even needing a light cover at night – luxuries utterly unthinkable during a standard Delhi summer. While the familiar warmth is set to return soon, this unusual dip into a 34-year-old record book provides a memorable, refreshing interlude in the heart of the monsoon season. Savour the sweaters while they last!