Delhi rain and thunderstorm alert: IMD issues yellow warning for May 11-12
Synopsis
After days of dry heat, Delhi is set for a brief but potent weather shift — the IMD has issued a yellow alert for 11–12 May, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and winds up to 50 kmph. Temperatures could dip to 37°C post-rain before clear skies return by 14 May.
Delhi's air quality continued to stay in the "moderate" category across most monitoring stations. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 136, Narela and Wazirpur both logged 143, while Rohini stood at 139. Cleaner readings were noted at Chandni Chowk (67), JNU (89), and Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (89).
What to Expect After the Showers
The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm hours, particularly while commuting in the evening, given the risk of strong winds and lightning. By 13 May, partly cloudy skies are expected, with clearer conditions likely returning from 14 May onwards. No weather warning has been issued for the latter half of the week, suggesting the rain activity will be short-lived but will provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat.
Key Takeaways
IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on 11 and 12 May , forecasting light rain, thunderstorms, and winds of 40–50 kmph .
Maximum temperature on 11 May expected around 38°C , dipping to 37°C on 12 May after rainfall.
Palam recorded a maximum of 34.4°C on Friday — about five degrees below normal.
Air quality remains in the "moderate" category; Narela and Wazirpur recorded the highest AQI at 143 .
Clear skies expected to return from 14 May ; no alerts issued for the latter half of the week.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light rainfall and thunderstorms for New Delhi on 11 and 12 May, issuing a yellow alert for both days after several consecutive days of dry and warm conditions. Residents have been warned of possible lightning strikes and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph during afternoon and evening hours.
What the Forecast Says
According to the IMD, Delhi may experience very light to light rain on Sunday, 11 May, and Monday, 12 May. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely across several parts of the city during this period. The maximum temperature on 11 May is expected to hover around 38 degrees Celsius, with the minimum near 27 degrees Celsius. On 12 May, daytime temperatures may dip slightly to around 37 degrees Celsius following rainfall activity.
Days Before the Rain
Before the anticipated weather change, Delhi is expected to see mainly clear skies on 9 and 10 May, with temperatures likely to remain between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius. No weather alert has been issued for either of those days. The brief dry spell is consistent with the broader pattern of warm, settled conditions the capital has seen over the past week.
Temperatures Recorded on Friday
Several weather stations across Delhi recorded below-normal temperatures on Friday. Palam logged a maximum of 34.4 degrees Celsius, approximately five degrees below the seasonal norm. Lodi Road and Ridge stations recorded highs of 34.2 degrees Celsius and 34.8 degrees Celsius, respectively. Ayanagar recorded a maximum of 35.1 degrees Celsius, also below the seasonal average. Morning temperatures were comparatively comfortable: Safdarjung registered a minimum of 22.6 degrees Celsius, Palam recorded 20.7 degrees Celsius, and the Ridge area was the coolest at 20 degrees Celsius.
Air Quality Remains Moderate
Delhi's air quality continued to stay in the
Point of View
Where lightning and gusty winds pose real safety risks that residents routinely underestimate. With AQI already moderate and temperatures oscillating, city authorities would do well to ensure stormwater drains are clear and public advisories reach last-mile commuters before the evening squalls hit.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IMD yellow alert for Delhi on May 11-12?
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on 11 and 12 May, forecasting light to very light rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph during afternoon and evening hours. Residents are advised to stay cautious while commuting during these hours.
How much will temperatures drop in Delhi after the rain?
Temperatures are expected to hover around 38°C on 11 May and dip slightly to around 37°C on 12 May following rainfall activity. The showers are expected to bring temporary relief from the prevailing heat.
When will clear weather return to Delhi after the thunderstorms?
Partly cloudy skies are expected on 13 May, with clearer weather conditions likely returning from 14 May onwards. No weather warning has been issued for the latter half of the week.
What is Delhi's current air quality index (AQI)?
Delhi's air quality remains in the 'moderate' category. Narela and Wazirpur recorded the highest AQI readings at 143, while Chandni Chowk had the cleanest air at 67 among the monitored stations.
Which Delhi weather stations recorded below-normal temperatures on Friday?
Palam recorded a maximum of 34.4°C — about five degrees below normal — while Lodi Road and Ridge logged 34.2°C and 34.8°C respectively. The Ridge area was the coolest overnight, recording a minimum of 20°C.
