Weather Update – Delhi Sees Rain, Hailstorm and Sharp Temperature Drop
Weather Update – A sudden change in weather conditions brought heavy clouds, rain, and hailstorms to several parts of Delhi on Tuesday, offering residents temporary relief from the intense heat that had affected the city in recent days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for multiple areas of the national capital as thunderstorms and strong winds moved across the region.
Orange Alert Issued Across Several Delhi Regions
The weather department placed many districts under an orange alert during the evening hours. Areas including New Delhi, Central Delhi, West Delhi, Northwest Delhi, Northeast Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, and Outer North Delhi witnessed cloudy skies and rainfall activity. Some pockets in South and Southwest Delhi were also expected to receive similar weather conditions through the day.
Residents in several localities also experienced hailstorms accompanied by thunder and gusty winds. The sudden spell of rain arrived only days after Delhi recorded intense heatwave-like conditions, making the shift in weather especially noticeable for commuters and office-goers across the city.
Temperatures Fall Below Seasonal Average
The unseasonal rain brought down temperatures significantly in many parts of the capital. According to official observations, Safdarjung, considered Delhi’s primary weather station, recorded a minimum temperature of 19.6 degrees Celsius. This was more than five degrees below the seasonal average for this time of year.
The maximum temperature settled at 33.6 degrees Celsius, remaining much lower than the typical early May daytime temperatures usually seen in Delhi. Weather experts believe the cooling trend may continue for the next couple of days as rain-bearing systems remain active over North India.
Weather Experts Predict Similar Conditions Ahead
Meteorologists have indicated that the current weather pattern is linked to widespread rainfall activity affecting several northern states. Mahesh Palawat of Skymet Weather stated that temperatures are likely to stay below normal because of continuing rain and hailstorm activity across North India. He added that similar weather conditions may continue for another one or two days.
The IMD has also warned that isolated parts of Delhi could witness hailstorms again on Wednesday. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during periods of lightning and strong winds.
Air Quality Improves After Rainfall
Apart from bringing relief from the heat, the rainfall also improved Delhi’s air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 86 during the morning hours, placing it in the satisfactory category. Experts often observe cleaner air conditions after rainfall due to the settling of dust particles and pollutants in the atmosphere.
The sudden weather shift has created more pleasant conditions across the city, although officials continue to monitor the possibility of further storms and rain-related disruptions over the coming days. Residents are expected to experience cooler mornings and relatively moderate daytime temperatures compared to the extreme heat witnessed earlier this month.