Monsoon – Delhi Rain Brings Relief as IMD Issues Red Alert
Monsoon – After an extended spell of intense heat and high humidity, Delhi received heavy rain on Tuesday afternoon, offering temporary relief to residents. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the city, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds in several areas.
Rain and thunderstorms expected to continue
The weather department said similar conditions could continue on July 8, particularly during the afternoon. Light rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected across parts of Delhi.
The IMD had initially placed the capital under an orange alert, forecasting moderate rainfall at most locations along with thunderstorms and lightning. The warning was later raised to red as conditions intensified and the possibility of heavier rain and stronger winds increased.
According to the forecast, moderate rain is likely at many places, while isolated areas may receive heavy showers. Thunderstorms and lightning may accompany the rainfall, with wind speeds potentially reaching 70 kmph in some parts of the city.
High humidity added to morning discomfort
Despite the afternoon rain, Delhi began the day under uncomfortable weather conditions. The maximum temperature was recorded at about 37.2 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature settled at 30 degrees Celsius.
The minimum reading was the highest recorded in the city since July 2, 2024, when the temperature had touched 30.7 degrees Celsius. High humidity further increased the discomfort for people heading out during the morning hours.
At 8.30 am, the IMD said the apparent or “feels like” temperature had reached 44.7 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity at the time stood at 79 per cent, creating oppressive conditions before the rain arrived.
Temperature varied across weather stations
Weather stations across Delhi recorded varying minimum temperatures. Lodhi Road reported a low of 30.4 degrees Celsius, while Palam recorded 28.3 degrees Celsius. Ayanagar registered 28.6 degrees Celsius, and the Ridge station recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 24.9 degrees Celsius.
The difference in readings reflected the uneven distribution of cloud cover, rain and wind across the capital and nearby areas.
Waterlogging reported in Delhi NCR
Heavy rain led to waterlogging in several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region. Commuters faced slow traffic and difficult road conditions in some locations as water accumulated on major roads and internal streets.
Areas in Noida and Gurugram also reported waterlogging after the showers. The rainfall brought down temperatures in several neighbourhoods, but it also disrupted movement during the busy afternoon period.
Authorities continued to monitor roads and drainage points where water accumulation was reported.
Tree fall disrupts traffic in East of Kailash
A large tree fell on a moving Mercedes and another passing vehicle on a busy road in southeast Delhi’s East of Kailash area during the rain. Officials said no injuries were reported in the incident.
Delhi Fire Services personnel said three people were trapped inside one of the vehicles after the tree fell across the road. Rescue teams reached the spot and safely brought them out.
The incident temporarily affected traffic on Raja Dhir Singh Marg until clearance work began. Officials believe strong winds and heavy rain may have caused the tree to uproot.
Fire service personnel also highlighted the need for regular pruning and periodic checks of trees in crowded urban areas, particularly during the monsoon season.
Monsoon advances in northern and western regions
The southwest monsoon advanced further into parts of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Haryana on Tuesday, according to weather officials. Its progress is expected to influence rainfall activity across northwestern India in the coming days.