Residents of Delhi-NCR woke to overcast skies, cool breezes, and light showers on Wednesday, 1 July, as the advancing southwest monsoon delivered the region's first meaningful break from a prolonged heat spell. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain and pleasant conditions across the national capital and adjoining areas for the next four to five days.

Rain Reaches Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad

Light showers were reported from several parts of Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad during the early hours of Wednesday. Overcast skies and gentle winds kept temperatures in check, bringing visible relief to commuters and office-goers who had endured soaring heat through the past week. A first spell of rain accompanied by strong winds on Tuesday night had already begun easing the oppressive conditions.

IMD Forecast: Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Through July 6

According to the IMD, Delhi is likely to see light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph from 1 July to 6 July. Cloudy skies are expected to dominate throughout the week, with intermittent showers across the city and surrounding districts.

Monsoon Yet to Officially Enter Delhi

The southwest monsoon has not yet formally arrived in Delhi as of Wednesday morning. It has, however, reached parts of Uttar Pradesh and is advancing steadily toward the national capital, as well as Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Weather conditions are increasingly favourable for its arrival, and pre-monsoon showers have already begun influencing the region.

How Hot Was It Before the Rain?

Just a day earlier, Delhi had recorded punishing temperatures — the minimum settled at 31.2 degrees Celsius and the maximum touched 40.5 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, the city's base weather station. The Ridge logged an even higher maximum of 41.5 degrees Celsius, while Ayanagar recorded 40.1 degrees Celsius. The IMD noted that over the past 24 hours, maximum temperatures dipped by one to two degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures rose slightly by a similar margin. Daytime west-northwest winds blew at 15–20 kmph, adding to the improvement in conditions.

What to Expect Next

With the monsoon's formal onset in Delhi now appearing imminent, the coming days could see heavier spells replace the current light showers. The IMD's extended outlook through 6 July points to sustained cloudiness and periodic rainfall — a marked shift from the dry, scorching conditions that defined June's final stretch. Authorities and residents alike will be watching whether the monsoon crosses the official threshold in the days ahead.