Delhi-NCR weather: Heavy rain and strong winds swept across Delhi and neighbouring NCR districts on Monday, intensifying monsoon activity and disrupting normal life in several areas. Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad witnessed spells of heavy rain, waterlogging and traffic congestion.

The bad weather also affected flight operations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. According to FlightRadar24 data, around 397 flights were delayed or otherwise affected, while 26 flights were cancelled. As many as 15 flights were diverted, including three international services.

The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Gurugram and Faridabad, warning of heavy rainfall. Residents have been advised to remain cautious as continued showers could result in waterlogging and further disruption.

Gurugram advises WFH on August 25

Following heavy rainfall in Gurugram on Monday, authorities advised corporate offices, government and private schools and other institutions to allow employees and staff to work from home on August 25.

The advisory has been issued to help reduce traffic pressure and facilitate road and drainage repair work. Residents have also been asked to plan their journeys carefully in view of the weather conditions.

Nearly 4-km traffic jam on Sohna Road

Heavy rain resulted in severe waterlogging on the service lane of Sohna Road near Islampur village. Water accumulated to nearly two feet, making it difficult for vehicles to pass through the stretch.

The situation led to a traffic jam of nearly 4 km, with vehicles moving slowly through the affected area.

Delhi Airport operations hit 

Flight operations at Delhi airport were disrupted as heavy rain and adverse weather conditions affected aircraft movement.

Of the 15 diverted flights, 12 were sent to Jaipur, two to Chandigarh and one to Lucknow. Three of the diverted flights were international services.

FlightRadar24 data showed that the average delay at Delhi airport was around 25 minutes, with nearly 397 flights affected or delayed. A total of 26 flights had been cancelled.

Travellers were advised to check the latest flight status with their airlines before leaving for the airport.

Heavy traffic on MB Road

Rain-related traffic problems were also reported in several parts of Delhi. Heavy congestion was witnessed on MB Road near Sangam Vihar, particularly between Vayusenabad and Sangam Vihar.

Some commuters said they remained stuck for close to an hour. The congestion affected people travelling towards Delhi airport, offices and Saket Court.

India Gate gets heavy showers

Heavy showers were also witnessed around India Gate, offering some relief from the heat and humidity.

Visuals from the area showed rain covering the iconic monument and surrounding roads, creating a noticeably cooler and pleasant atmosphere in the capital.

Noida lashed by rain

Noida also witnessed heavy rainfall, with showers reported in sectors including 16, 39 and 95.

While the rain brought relief from the hot and humid conditions, it also added to weather-related disruptions across parts of the NCR. Continued rainfall could result in further waterlogging, particularly in low-lying areas.

Tree falls on Jail Road in West Delhi

A large neem tree fell on Jail Road in Ashok Nagar, West Delhi, blocking the road and affecting traffic movement.

The incident added to the difficulties faced by commuters as heavy rain and strong winds affected several parts of the capital.

Ghaziabad faces waterlogging

Heavy waterlogging was also reported near the Industrial Area underpass on NH-9 in Ghaziabad.

Several cars and two-wheelers struggled to cross the waterlogged stretch. Some motorists parked their vehicles along the roadside and waited for the water level to fall.

The accumulation of water slowed traffic and caused inconvenience to people travelling to work and for other essential purposes. Some pedestrians were seen taking shelter under the underpass, trees and other covered areas to escape the rain.

Despite the disruption, the showers provided relief from the heat and humidity.

More rain expected across Delhi-NCR

The weather department had already warned of rain in Delhi and adjoining areas, with more showers expected in the coming days.

With monsoon activity remaining strong, residents in Delhi-NCR should be prepared for possible waterlogging, traffic delays and other weather-related disruptions, particularly in low-lying areas and on roads that are prone to flooding.

Also Read | Delhi heavy rain disrupts flights: 15 diverted as IMD issues red alert, traffic crawls across NCR