Heavy rain returns to Delhi-NCR for second night, IMD issues red alert

Delhi-NCR saw a second straight night of heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds on Friday. The IMD issued a red alert and urged caution as the wet spell is likely to continue.

In Short

• Most areas were likely to see light rain, with isolated moderate showers
• Residents were advised to stay indoors and avoid trees during thunderstorms
• An active western disturbance is driving wet weather across northwestern India

Delhi-NCR witnessed a second consecutive night of heavy rainfall late Friday night, with thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds sweeping across the region and bringing relief from the intense heat that had gripped the national capital over the past week.

The IMD issued a red alert for Delhi and adjoining areas, warning of moderate thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and squally winds reaching 60-70 kmph, with gusts up to 80 kmph.

The weather office said most parts of the capital were likely to receive very light to light rainfall, while isolated pockets could witness moderate showers. A red alert indicates potentially hazardous weather conditions and calls for immediate precautions by residents and authorities.

Officials have advised people to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, and stay away from electric poles, open areas and waterlogged stretches.

The latest spell of rain follows widespread showers and gusty winds that lashed Delhi-NCR on Thursday evening, significantly lowering temperatures and providing respite from sweltering conditions. The change in weather has been attributed to an active western disturbance affecting the northwestern Himalayan region, which is also expected to bring rainfall to parts of Punjab, Haryana and Delhi through Saturday.

The impact of the weather system was evident in the capital's temperature readings. Safdarjung, Delhi's primary weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 34.6 degrees Celsius on Friday, 5.3 degrees below the seasonal average.

While the rain has offered temporary relief, the IMD has cautioned that thunderstorm activity is likely to continue over the next few days. A yellow alert has been issued for Saturday, with forecasts of thunderstorms and rain across the city.

The department has predicted a maximum temperature of around 37 degrees Celsius and a minimum of about 23 degrees Celsius on Saturday.

Looking ahead, generally cloudy skies are expected to prevail across Delhi-NCR from June 14 to June 16, with intermittent spells of rain and thunderstorms likely during the period. The continuing wet weather is expected to keep temperatures in check, offering residents a brief break from the summer heat, even as authorities urge caution amid the possibility of strong winds and lightning.

- Ends
With inputs from PTI