The India Meteorological Department has issued red and orange alerts for heavy rain across parts of Delhi-NCR, with thunderstorms expected in the capital on 30 October and overcast conditions likely to make moon sighting difficult during Karwa Chauth.
According to the latest forecast cited in the report, a red alert was in force until around 3.40 pm for North Delhi, North-West Delhi, West Delhi and South-West Delhi. Central Delhi, North-East Delhi and South-East Delhi were placed under an orange alert for the same period. Gurugram was under a yellow alert until 6 pm.
The forecast places Delhi’s minimum temperature at around 19°C and the maximum at 26°C on 29 October. Rain and thunderstorms are expected on 30 October, when the minimum temperature could fall to 17°C and the maximum reach 27°C. The alert comes during a period when rainfall can affect road movement, visibility and outdoor activity across the National Capital Region.
The weather outlook for the following days is more stable. Partly cloudy conditions are expected on 31 October, with temperatures likely to range between 18°C and 29°C. Clear weather is forecast for 1 November, with a minimum temperature of 17°C and a maximum of 30°C.
Clear conditions are also expected on 2, 3 and 4 November. The minimum temperature on each of those days is forecast at 16°C, while the maximum is expected to remain around 30°C.
The forecast has particular significance for Karwa Chauth observances. Women observing the fast traditionally wait to see the moon before ending it. The report said persistent rain and cloud cover could make moon sighting difficult in Delhi-NCR.
Weather expert Navdeep Dahiya said intermittent rain and cloud cover could continue across Delhi-NCR and neighbouring areas, including Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh. He said the cloud cover could obstruct visibility of the moon at night and advised people to plan their preparations accordingly.
The alert pattern also shows how weather conditions can vary across the NCR rather than affecting the region uniformly. While several Delhi districts were placed under red or orange alerts, Gurugram was under a yellow alert, reflecting different warning levels and time windows within the wider urban region.
The IMD forecast indicates that residents should expect the most unsettled conditions on 30 October before a gradual shift towards partly cloudy and clear weather from 31 October onward. The next operational milestone is the forecast period covering the rain and thunderstorm warning for 30 October.
