IMD Issues Red Alert as Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Lash Delhi

Several parts of Delhi witnessed intense rainfall on Tuesday, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, prompting the weather office to issue a red alert for multiple areas. The sudden change in weather disrupted daily life in parts of the city, while authorities urged residents to remain cautious as more severe conditions, including hail, were possible in the coming hours.

1. Red Alert Issued for Several Delhi Zones

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert at 11:10 am for North West Delhi, West Delhi, South West Delhi, Outer North Delhi and parts of Central Delhi. A red alert indicates that severe weather conditions are expected and that both authorities and residents need to take immediate action to ensure safety.

2. Orange Alert in Other Parts of the City

Apart from the red alert zones, orange alerts were issued for North East Delhi, East Delhi and Shahdara. Parts of North Delhi and South Delhi were also placed under alert. According to the IMD, an orange alert signals the need to stay prepared and cautious as adverse weather conditions are likely.

3. Rainfall Recorded Across Multiple Areas

Light to moderate rainfall was recorded across several parts of the city during the morning hours. Palam received 3.4 mm of rain, Ridge recorded 3.0 mm, and Pitampura logged 2.0 mm between 8:30 am and 11:30 am. Janakpuri reported 1.5 mm of rainfall, while Mayur Vihar recorded 1.0 mm and Ayanagar received 0.1 mm.

4. Minimal Rainfall in Central Locations

Safdarjung and Lodi Road reported only a trace of rainfall during the same period. No rainfall data was available from Pusa and Najafgarh, according to official figures released by the weather department. Despite limited rainfall in some areas, cloudy skies and strong winds were observed across most parts of the city.

5. Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Intensify Conditions

The IMD said thunderstorm activity was accompanied by gusty winds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph. Lightning and isolated hail were also possible during intense spells. Such conditions increased the risk of falling branches, traffic disruptions, and power outages in vulnerable areas.

6. Heavy Rainfall in Isolated Locations

Thunderstorm activity with moderate to heavy rainfall was confined to isolated pockets, including Narela, Bawana, Alipur, Kanjhawala, Rohini, Mundaka and Jafarpur. Residents in these areas experienced short but intense downpours along with strong winds.

7. Weather Office Issues Advisory for Next Few Hours

“Bad weather over Delhi NCR is likely during the next two to three hours,” the IMD said in a statement. The department advised people to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors during lightning activity, and follow official updates closely until conditions improve.

8. Temperature Drops After Wet Spell

The fresh spell of rain and thunderstorms is expected to cause a noticeable drop in temperatures. The maximum temperature is likely to settle around 19 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. The sudden cooling has brought a winter-like chill back to the region.

9. Similar Spell Witnessed Earlier This Month

The last such intense wet spell was recorded on January 23, when Delhi witnessed its highest January rainfall in two years. That rainfall led to a sharp dip in temperatures and briefly improved air quality levels by washing away pollutants from the atmosphere.

10. Authorities Monitor Situation Closely

Civic agencies and disaster management teams remain on alert as the weather situation continues to evolve. Officials said they are closely monitoring developments and are prepared to respond in case of emergencies such as waterlogging or traffic disruptions.

Conclusion

The spell of rain and thunderstorms has once again highlighted Delhi’s vulnerability to sudden weather changes during winter months. With red and orange alerts in place, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid panic. As the IMD continues to monitor conditions, people are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions until the weather stabilises.