Delhi witnessed one of its heaviest monsoon spells of the season on Thursday, with continuous rainfall since Wednesday night leading to waterlogging, traffic disruptions and travel concerns across several parts of the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for the national capital, warning residents of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds.
According to the IMD, Delhi received 34.9 mm of rainfall between 2:30 am and 5:30 am, as an active monsoon system intensified over North India.
IMD issues Red Alert for Delhi
The weather department has cautioned that intense rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching up to 60 kmph are likely across all districts of Delhi over the next few hours. The Red Alert also extends to several districts in Haryana, including Faridabad, Panipat and Sonipat.
Meteorologists have described the ongoing spell as the “best monsoon spell of the season”, driven by an active low-pressure system embedded in the monsoon trough and supported by a western disturbance. Rainfall across Delhi could accumulate between 180 mm and 230 mm, increasing the risk of waterlogging in vulnerable areas.
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Waterlogging hits key areas of the capital
Heavy rain has already caused waterlogging in several low-lying parts of Delhi. Areas around New Delhi Railway Station and Munirka were among the worst affected, slowing traffic and creating difficulties for commuters.
The minimum temperature was recorded at 25.8 degrees Celsius around 2:30 am, while calm wind conditions prevailed before the heavy showers intensified.
Rain likely to continue over North India
The IMD has indicated that the active monsoon pattern will continue over the coming days. Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh and western Uttar Pradesh are expected to receive widespread moderate to heavy rainfall until July 10.
In northeastern Uttar Pradesh, intermittent showers are forecast to continue until July 13, while eastern Rajasthan has also been placed under warning for heavy rainfall.
Other states report flooding and rain-related disruption
Heavy rain has affected several other states as well. In Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, severe waterlogging disrupted both pedestrian and vehicular movement overnight.
In Dungarpur, Rajasthan, torrential rain accompanied by thunder and lightning submerged several parts of the city. Flood-like conditions were reported in areas including Ghati, Kanera Pol, Mochi Bazaar and Bhoiwada, where more than three feet of water accumulated on roads. Local authorities deployed pumping machines and advised residents to avoid flooded stretches.
Meanwhile, the IMD has issued Orange Warnings for parts of Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, where thunderstorms and moderate rainfall are expected over the next few hours.
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Air India issues travel advisory
The ongoing weather has also affected travel plans. Air India has issued an advisory stating that adverse weather may impact flight operations to and from Delhi. The airline has asked passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport.
Authorities have also urged commuters to plan their journeys carefully, avoid waterlogged routes wherever possible, and stay updated with the IMD’s latest weather advisories as the monsoon system remains active.
FAQs:
Why has IMD issued a Red Alert for Delhi today?
IMD has issued a Red Alert due to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds up to 60 kmph and the risk of severe waterlogging across Delhi.
How long will the heavy rain continue in Delhi?
According to IMD, Delhi is likely to witness widespread moderate to heavy rainfall until July 10 as the active monsoon system persists.
