Heavy rain batters Delhi-NCR, IMD issues orange alert; flights likely to be hit
PTC Web Desk: Heavy showers drenched several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Tuesday evening, taking commuters by surprise as dark clouds enveloped the skyline. The sudden downpour prompted the Delhi Airport authorities to issue an advisory, alerting passengers about possible flight delays and operational disruptions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that areas in central, southwest, west, northwest, and north Delhi are likely to experience moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi has placed a yellow alert for west and south Delhi, while an orange alert has been issued for the remaining parts of the city. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Lucknow has also sounded a yellow alert for Noida and Ghaziabad.
In its advisory, the Delhi Airport stated: “Due to adverse weather conditions in Delhi, flight operations may be affected. Our ground teams are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise disruptions and ensure smooth passenger movement.”
The IMD has forecast moderate rainfall, accompanied by light thunderstorms and lightning, across several areas of Delhi-NCR and nearby states over the next few hours.
The national capital began the day on a rainy note, with the minimum temperature recorded at 21°C, around 1.3 degrees below normal. Meteorologists attributed the wet spell to a Western Disturbance currently influencing northwestern India.
On a positive note, Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘satisfactory’ category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 68 at 9 am, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). AQI levels between 51 and 100 indicate acceptable air quality for most residents.
- With inputs from agencies
