Delhi and its adjoining areas witnessed a dramatic shift in weather on Tuesday evening, as a spell of light rain and thunderstorms brought a temporary respite from the scorching heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for the capital and surrounding regions, including Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram, forecasting further rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in the coming hours. The shift in weather came after a particularly hot day, with the temperature soaring to 40.2 degrees Celsius, 0.7 degrees higher than the seasonal average. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded at 27.7 degrees Celsius, also 2.3 degrees above the normal range. Humidity levels fluctuated between 50% and 42% during the day, contributing to the discomfort that Delhiites experienced. In stark contrast, Monday’s high temperature was slightly lower at 38.3 degrees Celsius, a decrease of 1.2 degrees from the expected value.
While the high temperatures made it a difficult day for residents, the onset of dust storms and heavy rain in the late afternoon offered a brief but welcome break. Around 4 pm, dust storms swept across parts of Gurugram and other areas of the National Capital Region (NCR), bringing with them strong winds and dark skies. These were quickly followed by thunderstorms, bringing light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds between 40-60 km/h. The weather was a stark reminder of the region’s climatic unpredictability, which has become a characteristic feature of recent years. For many, the rain was a relief after days of intense heat, but the impact on daily life was not negligible. There were reports of waterlogging in several parts of the city, particularly in low-lying areas. Despite the rain, officials from the IMD warned of possible disruptions to flight operations due to the inclement weather, underscoring the challenges posed by such weather events. Rainfall in the capital and NCR regions tends to cause traffic delays and operational disturbances, especially when it is accompanied by high winds and storms.
The IMD’s orange alert for Delhi and its neighbouring districts remains in effect, as experts predict that the region could experience similar weather conditions in the coming days. As Delhi braces for more rain and thunderstorms, the orange alert warns residents to be prepared for potential disruptions, particularly in areas that are prone to flooding and power outages. The alert also highlights the risks of lightning and gusty winds, which can cause damage to infrastructure and disrupt transport services. While the rain brought temporary relief from the sweltering heat, it also raised concerns about the city’s preparedness for such unpredictable weather events. Delhi’s infrastructure, particularly its stormwater drainage systems, has often been a point of discussion in relation to urban flooding and waterlogging. The city’s ability to cope with such extremes will be crucial in the coming years as climate change continues to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of weather events.
For now, the IMD has predicted that Delhi will see partly cloudy skies on Wednesday, with temperatures likely to hover around 40 degrees Celsius during the day and 28 degrees Celsius at night. These predictions suggest that while the rain has offered a brief respite, the capital will soon return to its typical summer conditions. As the summer months intensify, it becomes clear that weather extremes are a recurring feature of Delhi’s climate, presenting ongoing challenges for residents, infrastructure, and the government. The extreme temperatures, high humidity, and sudden rainfall patterns are a reminder of the need for long-term planning to ensure that the city remains resilient in the face of climate change.
The challenge now is for city officials and urban planners to adopt more sustainable and climate-resilient practices that can mitigate the impact of such extreme weather events. Measures such as the expansion of green spaces, the improvement of stormwater drainage systems, and the promotion of energy-efficient buildings are essential to ensuring the city’s infrastructure can cope with the growing pressures of climate change. Additionally, the government could consider implementing better flood management systems, as well as raising awareness among citizens about the importance of conserving water and reducing energy consumption during peak summer months. While Delhi is undoubtedly one of India’s most vibrant and diverse cities, its rapid urbanisation, coupled with the effects of climate change, poses significant challenges. To ensure that the city remains a sustainable and resilient urban environment, all sectors—government, business, and civil society—must collaborate to build solutions that address the city’s environmental and social needs.
The upcoming weeks may see more fluctuations in weather patterns, including higher-than-usual temperatures and unseasonal rainfall. As this occurs, the role of the Delhi government in implementing eco-friendly and sustainable practices will be tested. Ensuring that the city is not only able to cope with extreme weather but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change will be key to safeguarding Delhi’s future. For now, residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for more weather fluctuations, as the city continues to adapt to a new climate reality. As we move through this challenging weather season, it is essential for the public to stay informed through official weather updates. The IMD’s proactive warnings and advisories, including the orange alert issued for Delhi, are important tools in reducing the risks posed by adverse weather events. By staying prepared and understanding the impact of weather on daily life, Delhiites can navigate these turbulent times with resilience.
Delhi Faces Rain and Thunderstorms, Orange Alert Issued
