A sudden spell of dust storms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall swept across several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Monday under the influence of an active western disturbance. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Delhi, warning of severe weather conditions that could disrupt normal life.
Sudden Change in Weather Conditions
After experiencing hot and humid conditions for most of the day, Delhi witnessed a dramatic change in weather during the afternoon. A dust storm was followed by thunderstorms and rain in several areas, bringing temporary relief from the scorching heat.
The city recorded a temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius, with partly sunny conditions prevailing before the weather system intensified. Earlier in the day, light rainfall was reported in some parts of the capital, with weather observatories at Palam and Ayanagar recording traces of precipitation.
IMD Issues Red Alert
The IMD warned that strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall could significantly impact daily activities across Delhi-NCR. The weather department advised residents to remain cautious, as severe weather events may lead to traffic disruptions, reduced visibility, and localized waterlogging.
Meteorologists had earlier forecast scattered thunderstorms and rainfall across the region on Monday due to the influence of a western disturbance moving across north India.
Western Disturbance to Keep North India Wet Till June 19
According to IMD scientist Naresh Kumar, the active western disturbance currently positioned over northern Haryana is gradually moving eastward. Its impact is expected to continue across northwestern India until June 19.
As a result, several northern states are likely to experience intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms over the next few days.
Rain Forecast for Several States
The IMD has predicted scattered rainfall in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand until June 19. Himachal Pradesh is also expected to receive rainfall during the same period.
In the plains, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh are likely to witness isolated to scattered rain showers through June 19. Eastern Uttar Pradesh may receive rainfall between June 18 and 19, while western Rajasthan is expected to see rain activity until June 17, with further showers possible before June 19.
Temperature Trends Across India
The weather department stated that daytime temperatures in northwestern India are likely to rise by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius until June 17 before stabilizing thereafter.
In central India, temperatures are expected to remain largely stable until June 17 and may then fall by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius by June 19. Temperatures across most other parts of the country are expected to remain largely unchanged over the coming days.
Relief from Heat, But Caution Advised
While the rainfall has provided some respite from the intense summer heat, authorities have urged residents to stay alert and follow weather advisories. The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather system and has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense storms and strong winds.