Delhi-NCR Receives Much-Needed Rain; IMD Issues Yellow Alert
Synopsis
Heavy rainfall across Delhi-NCR has brought much-needed relief from rising temperatures, as the IMD forecasts additional showers and issues a yellow alert for thunderstorms. This month is shaping up to be the wettest March in three years.
Key Takeaways
Heavy rainfall has provided relief from high temperatures in Delhi-NCR.
IMD has issued a yellow alert for more rain and thunderstorms.
This March is the wettest in three years.
Air quality has shown slight improvement post-rain.
Residents are advised to stay prepared for changing weather conditions.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) Torrential rains swept through various regions of Delhi-NCR, providing essential respite from escalating temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted additional rainfall and issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and rain on Friday.
The sporadic showers over the last two days have notably alleviated the higher temperatures that had enveloped the city. Recent reports indicate that the Safdarjung observatory has measured 9.4 mm of rainfall this month, approaching the typical monthly average of 12.6 mm.
This recent downpour has made March the wettest month in the past three years. The last significant rainfall during this period was recorded in 2023, with precipitation reaching 50.4 mm.
On Friday morning, multiple weather stations across the capital reported rainfall. Both Safdarjung and Lodhi Road recorded 8.2 mm, while Ridge reported 8.6 mm. Palam saw 6.2 mm, and Ayanagar measured 7.2 mm of rain by 8 a.m.
Rainfall activity on Thursday varied throughout the city. Safdarjung noted 8.2 mm, Palam 6.2 mm, Lodhi Road 8.2 mm, and Ridge 8.6 mm, while Ayanagar recorded 7.2 mm. Other regions, including Pitampura (5.5 mm), Pusa (11.0 mm), Mayur Vihar (3.0 mm), and Janakpuri (12.5 mm), experienced light to moderate showers.
The maximum temperature in the city dipped to 26.8 degrees Celsius, marking the lowest level this month. The IMD had previously issued an orange alert for the city until late Thursday evening, signaling the necessity for preparedness against potentially disruptive weather, which may affect transport and daily activities.
Cloudy skies and sporadic rainfall continued to offer relief on Wednesday. Safdarjung recorded only trace amounts of rain between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., while Ayanagar reported 0.5 mm by 2:30 p.m. and 0.7 mm by 5:30 p.m.
The weather department had earlier anticipated thunderstorms, hailstorms, and moderate rainfall, coupled with gusty winds of 40-50 km/h across Delhi-NCR, including Noida, Dadri, and Greater Noida. Similar weather patterns are anticipated to persist on Friday, with light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms expected to continue.
Additionally, Delhi's air quality showed slight improvement following the rain, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘moderate’ category at most monitoring stations across the city.
Anand Vihar (178), Ashok Vihar (117), Aya Nagar (90), Bawana (122), Burari Crossing (366), CRRI Mathura Road (111), Cantonment Area (124), Chandni Chowk (116), DTU (81), Dwarka-Sector 8 (120), IIT Delhi (86), Narela (108), Nehru Nagar (123), R K Puram (124), Wazirpur (135).
Point of View
I emphasize the significance of this rainfall for Delhi-NCR. The relief from high temperatures is crucial, and the IMD's alerts highlight the need for public awareness and preparedness for upcoming weather changes. A proactive approach will help residents navigate the challenges posed by these weather conditions.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent rainfall in Delhi-NCR?
The recent rainfall is attributed to a weather system that has brought moisture and instability, resulting in showers and thunderstorms across the region.
How much rainfall has been recorded in March 2023?
As of now, March 2023 has recorded 9.4 mm of rainfall, nearing the normal monthly average of 12.6 mm.
What is a yellow alert issued by the IMD?
A yellow alert indicates that residents should be aware of potential weather changes and prepare for possible disruptions due to rain and thunderstorms.
How has the rainfall affected Delhi's air quality?
The rainfall has led to a slight improvement in Delhi's air quality, with the AQI remaining in the 'moderate' category at most monitoring stations.
What temperatures are expected in the coming days?
Temperatures are expected to remain lower due to the ongoing rainfall, with maximums recorded at 26.8 degrees Celsius recently.
