New Delhi, June 18: A spell of pre-monsoon showers lashed the national capital on Tuesday, providing much-needed respite from the scorching heat, but also triggering widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions across the city.
According to officials, 12 flights were diverted at the Indira Gandhi International Airport between 3 pm and 4 pm due to adverse weather conditions.
The heavy rainfall led to knee-deep water accumulation at several key underpasses and roads including Delhi Cantonment, Zakhira Underpass, Pul Prahladpur, ITO, Najafgarh Road, and Rohtak Road, severely affecting vehicular movement and causing long traffic snarls.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued a red alert for the capital and adjoining areas, warning of thunderstorms, hail, heavy rain, and gusty winds with speeds up to 70 kmph. Rainfall recorded across city stations included 41 mm at Pusa, 23 mm at Ayanagar, 15 mm at Narayana, 10 mm at Safdarjung, and 5 mm at Lodhi Road.
Winds reached speeds of 35–40 kmph at Palam and Safdarjung between 2:30 pm and 3 pm, and again around 6:30 pm.
The maximum temperature settled at 36.2°C, 3.8 degrees below the season’s average, while the minimum was 28°C, slightly above normal. Humidity levels were recorded at 61% in the evening.
For Wednesday, the IMD has issued a yellow alert, forecasting light to moderate rainfall, lightning, and thundersqualls with wind speeds of 50–60 kmph, particularly at night.
Temperatures are expected to range between 34°C (max) and 27°C (min).
The IMD warned of potential impacts, including:
- Delays in air and train services
- Traffic congestion
- Power disruptions from lightning
- Threats to life in open areas due to intense lightning
- Risk to livestock and outdoor workers
Residents have been advised to:
- Stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel
- Unplug appliances during thunderstorms
- Avoid sheltering under trees or metal structures
- Refrain from using mobile phones in open spaces
Farmers and outdoor workers have been asked to halt work and seek shelter immediately.
Delhi will remain under a yellow alert through Thursday.
Air Quality Update
Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality improved to the ‘moderate’ category, with an AQI of 104 at 4 pm, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
AQI Category Breakdown:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
The IMD has urged residents to stay updated via its official website and verified news sources for weather-related developments.
