The national capital has recorded its wettest May ever, with a total rainfall of 186.4 mm, surpassing the previous record of 165 mm set in 2008.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this anomaly to a combination of western disturbances and moisture influx from the Arabian Sea, leading to frequent thunderstorms and cooler temperatures. The IMD has issued an orange alert for May 31, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds with speeds reaching up to 70 km/h in several parts of Delhi. This alert comes as the city experiences a significant deviation from typical May weather patterns, which are usually characterized by scorching heat and minimal rainfall. On Saturday morning, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 34.8 degrees Celsius, 5.6 degrees below the season’s average. The maximum temperature settled at 34.8 degrees Celsius, six degrees below normal, marking a notable drop from the previous day’s 39.1 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels ranged between 75% and 50%, with wind speeds hovering around 8 km/h.
The IMD predicts that this pattern will continue through June 2, with temperatures expected to remain between 36–38 degrees Celsius before dipping slightly. The department also anticipates above-normal monsoon rainfall and has ruled out any heatwaves in June, thanks to continued rain activity. Delhi’s air quality has also seen improvements, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 167 on Friday, slightly down from 171 the previous day. This places the air quality in the ‘moderate’ category, a welcome change for a city that often grapples with severe pollution levels. The unusual weather patterns have sparked discussions among environmental experts and urban planners about the implications of climate change on urban centers. The increased rainfall and cooler temperatures, while providing temporary relief from heatwaves, also raise concerns about infrastructure readiness and water management in the city.
Experts emphasize the need for sustainable urban planning that accounts for such anomalies. “The recent weather patterns underscore the importance of building resilient cities that can adapt to changing climate conditions,” said an official from the IMD. “This includes investing in green infrastructure, improving drainage systems, and promoting eco-friendly practices among residents.” The Delhi government has been urged to take proactive measures to address these challenges. This includes enhancing the city’s drainage capacity to prevent waterlogging, promoting rainwater harvesting, and increasing green cover to mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Residents are also encouraged to adopt sustainable practices, such as using public transportation, reducing energy consumption, and participating in community-led environmental initiatives. These collective efforts can contribute to building a more resilient and eco-friendly Delhi. As the city navigates these unprecedented weather conditions, the focus remains on leveraging this opportunity to implement long-term, sustainable solutions that not only address immediate concerns but also pave the way for a greener, more equitable future.
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