Delhi weather turns pleasant as rain, hailstorm lash city

While rain and strong winds have brought short-term respite from the intense heat, the relief is unlikely to last for long. 

Delhi witnessed a dramatic change in weather on Wednesday evening as heavy rain, gusty winds, and hailstorms swept across several parts of the city, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat. The sudden change turned the weather pleasant, with temperatures dropping significantly after days of scorching temperatures in the national capital.

Authorities have advised people to avoid standing in open areas or seeking shelter under trees and electric poles during thunderstorms, as they may collapse or attract lightning strikes, posing serious safety risks.

Cause of the sudden shift in weather 

Meteorologists have linked the sudden shift in Delhi-NCR’s weather to the impact of a Western Disturbance combined with local atmospheric activity. While rain and strong winds have brought short-term respite from the intense heat, the relief is unlikely to last for long. The recent spell of rainfall is also expected to improve the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) in the coming days.

Temperature to rise again

Despite the brief relief, temperatures in Delhi are expected to rise gradually over the next few days. According to the forecast, the maximum temperature on May 14 is expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may settle around 25 degrees Celsius. On May 15, the temperature is likely to range between 26 and 38 degrees Celsius. Similar conditions are expected on May 16 and May 17, with temperatures forecast to hover between 27 and 39 degrees Celsius, and 27 and 40 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Severe heatwave to continue despite relief 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are likely to continue over northwest, west, and parts of central India during several days this week. People are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions, including drinking plenty of water to remain hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours between 12 PM and 4 PM, wearing light and breathable clothing, staying in cool or shaded areas, eating light meals with water-rich fruits, and taking extra care of children and elderly people.

Delhi temperature 

Delhi has been witnessing persistently high temperatures over the past several days, with residents struggling to cope with the intense summer heat. Before the rain, Delhi recorded maximum temperatures ranging between 37.0 degrees Celsius and 39.2 degrees Celsius across most parts of the city on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the Safdarjung observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 39 degrees Celsius, slightly below the seasonal average, while the minimum temperature settled at 27.6 degrees Celsius, more than two degrees above normal for this time of the year.