Heavy rain with storm in Delhi, weather changed amid scorching heat

National News: The capital city of Delhi experienced a dramatic weather shift on Wednesday evening (May 21), as a sudden storm followed by heavy rain brought temporary relief from the scorching heat but also led to significant disruptions in daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued a forecast predicting rain accompanied by thunderstorms, which proved accurate as strong winds and downpours hit the city late in the evening.

Before the rain, a powerful dust storm swept across parts of Delhi, severely affecting visibility and air quality. The storm was followed by heavy rainfall in several areas, which not only cooled the temperature but also brought its own set of challenges.

Many residents reported power outages and delays in public transportation. Metro services in certain routes were disrupted, and the vehicular movement on key roads slowed down due to waterlogging and poor visibility.

Yellow Alert Issued by IMD for Delhi

The IMD had issued a yellow alert ahead of the storm, warning residents about possible strong winds and thunderstorms. Officials have advised people to stay indoors during peak wind hours and avoid unnecessary travel. According to the IMD, Delhi’s sky is expected to remain partly cloudy for the next 24 hours, with intermittent chances of light showers and gusty winds.

Impact on Daily Life and Commuting

Though the sudden rainfall helped lower the temperature slightly, it also caused inconvenience for commuters. Many office-goers were stranded on roads due to traffic snarls, while others faced delays due to water accumulation on roads. Delhiites had to navigate through slippery lanes and congested traffic, especially in low-lying areas that saw moderate waterlogging.

Storms Expected in Noida and Ghaziabad

The IMD has also forecasted similar weather patterns for other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR), including Noida and Ghaziabad. These regions are likely to experience thunderstorms and rain over the next two days. While this may provide a temporary break from the intense summer heat, it is expected to increase humidity levels, potentially causing discomfort for residents.

Temperature to Stay High Despite Rainfall

Despite the rain, temperatures are not expected to dip significantly. The maximum temperature in Delhi on May 22 and 23 is predicted to range between 39°C to 41°C, while the minimum may stay around 27°C to 30°C. Experts warn that although the weather may feel cooler momentarily, the combined effect of heat and humidity could still make conditions uncomfortable.