New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday issued a red alert for parts of the Delhi-NCR region as heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and strong gusty winds affected the national capital, disrupting Janmashtami celebrations and delaying several flights to and from Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.
Weather impact and warnings
The IMD’s short-range forecast, released in the afternoon, warned of light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning at many places between 2:15 pm and 4:15 pm, and a further spell of precipitation between 5 pm and 8 pm. The forecast said isolated locations could receive heavy rainfall, with some areas experiencing intense rainfall of 50 mm to 100 mm.
The department also cautioned that rain activity may be accompanied by strong winds of 40–50 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 60 kmph. The IMD classification of red indicates a high likelihood of severe weather leading to potential disruption of normal life and hazards such as flooding and tree falls.
Transport and public disruptions
Waterlogging was reported at parts of IGI Airport after the downpour. Several arriving flights were affected, with domestic services from Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Port Blair among those delayed, according to airline advisories and flight data. IndiGo issued a travel advisory, urging passengers to verify flight status on its website or mobile app and to allow extra time for road travel due to slower conditions.
"Bad weather over Delhi had impacted flight schedules. The airline advised passengers travelling today to check their flight status on its website or app before leaving for the airport and allow additional travel time due to slower road conditions," IndiGo said in an advisory.
Janmashtami events across the city were interrupted as sudden heavy showers forced devotees and organisers to seek shelter. Roads became wet and crowded as people used umbrellas and took cover from the rain.
Observed rainfall and short-term outlook
IMD three-hourly observations showed localized rainfall amounts in some stations. Palam registered 3.4 mm between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm, while Najafgarh recorded 0.5 mm between 8:30 am and 11:30 am. Most other monitoring points reported little or no rain during those intervals.
| Parameter | Reported/Forecast |
|---|---|
| Palam (rainfall) | 3.4 mm (11:30–14:30 IST) |
| Najafgarh (rainfall) | 0.5 mm (08:30–11:30 IST) |
| Heavy rain potential | 50–100 mm at isolated places |
| Winds | 40–50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph |
Precautions and advisories
Residents, commuters and event organisers were advised to heed IMD alerts and take standard precautions. Practical safety measures include:
- Avoid standing or walking under large trees and unsecured hoardings during thunderstorms and high winds.
- Drivers should reduce speed, switch on headlights in heavy rain, and maintain safe distance to prevent hydroplaning; expect slower traffic near waterlogged stretches.
- Passengers should check flight status with airlines before leaving for airports and plan additional travel time.
- Organisers of outdoor gatherings should consider postponement or shifting to covered venues while monitoring official updates.
Municipal agencies and traffic police in the capital typically clear drains and manage diversion where required; travellers were urged to follow directions of on-ground authorities. The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates; any escalation or extension of the advisory will be communicated through official channels.
With the monsoon and associated convective activity capable of producing sudden, localised heavy downpours, authorities and the public were reminded to stay alert to weather bulletins and take timely action to reduce risk to life and property.
