New Delhi, May 1 (Inditop) Delhi literally sizzled Friday as the mercury touched 44 degrees Celsius – a good five degrees above normal. Delhhiites had a tough time beating the heat with many trying their best to stay indoors or taking ample precautions if they had to venture out.

Officials at the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the heat wave conditions were likely to continue as the temperature recorded in the afternoon was 44 degrees – the highest this season.

Wednesday saw the hottest April day in 50 years as the mercury touched 43.5 degrees Celsius.

For Delhiites, respite from the heat does seem quite a distance away.

“I have been trying to avoid going outdoors, but because of the nature of my work I have no option. I try and protect myself with a dupatta (scarf) over my head, shades, umbrella and sip water continuously – yet it brings little relief,” said Sakshi Mehra, a sales executive.

The minimum temperature recorded early Friday was 24.8 degrees Celsius, which was a notch above normal. The weather officials said the weather condition over the entire northern region is dry and, therefore, the heat wave is likely to continue.