Rain alert for Delhi-NCR: IMD forecasts showers in these areas today

After days of hot and humid weather, parts of Delhi-NCR could finally see some rain. The latest IMD nowcast reveals where showers are most likely today.

In Short

• Light rain expected in parts of Delhi and NCR on July 14
• Showers forecasted in Haryana, UP and Rajasthan areas
• Light rain offers temporary relief, no widespread monsoon return yet

Parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are likely to receive light rainfall on Tuesday, July 14, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a nowcast valid until 4:30 pm.

According to the IMD's weather update issued at 2:30 pm, light rain is expected over Jafarpur and Najafgarh in Delhi, along with Gurugram and Manesar in the NCR over the next two hours.

The weather agency has also forecast light showers in nearby areas, including Mattanhail, Jhajjar, Farukhnagar and Sohna in Haryana.

Nandgaon and Barsana in Uttar Pradesh, and Bhiwadi, Tijara, Khairthal, Kotputli, Alwar, Viratnagar, Nagar, Laxmangarh, Rajgarh, Nadbai and Mahawa in Rajasthan are also expected to see showers.

RAIN AFTER DAYS OF HUMID HEAT

The forecast comes after several days of hot and humid conditions across Delhi-NCR as the southwest monsoon entered a weak phase.

Although the monsoon covered the entire country earlier this month, rainfall activity has reduced significantly over northwest India in recent days, leading to rising daytime temperatures and uncomfortable humidity.

The current lull is linked to a temporary weakening of the monsoon circulation.

Meteorologists say the monsoon trough, which is the low-pressure belt that drives much of India's seasonal rainfall, has shifted closer to the Himalayan foothills.

This has reduced rain over the plains, including Delhi and neighbouring states.

Owing to existing warm conditions, even light showers can provide temporary relief by lowering temperatures and improving comfort levels. But this light spell of rain is unlikely to signal the return of widespread monsoon rainfall.

WHEN WILL MONSOON RAIN COME BACK?

The IMD had forecast subdued rainfall over large parts of northwest and central India for the next few days, with the current weak phase expected to persist through the week.

Weather conditions, however, are now likely to begin improving after a weather circulation developed in the Pacific Ocean and arrived over the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, July 14.

The weather circulation is now expected to push monsoon rains towards parts of India, starting with eastern regions, and eventually reaching central and northern regions.

Until then, Delhi-NCR will have to make do with isolated spells of rain or drizzle, interspersed with warm and humid conditions.

Residents in areas covered by the IMD's nowcast are advised to plan travel accordingly, as brief showers could lead to slippery roads and slower traffic during the afternoon.

- Ends