Delhi-NCR woke up to heavy rain on Tuesday, August 25, with several parts of the capital witnessing waterlogging and traffic disruptions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red warning for all 11 districts of Delhi, forecasting heavy rain along with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of around 60 kmph.
The warning was issued at 7:13 am and remained valid until 10:13 am.
Residents were advised to remain alert as more rain was expected in several parts of the capital.
Heavy Rain Causes Waterlogging and Traffic Jams
Continuous showers affected normal life across Delhi, with water accumulating on several roads and low-lying areas.
Heavy rainfall was reported from areas including Parliament Street, Connaught Place, AIIMS, ITO, R K Puram and Ferozeshah Road.
The IMD forecast moderate rain at many places in Delhi, with some areas likely to receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.
Thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds were also expected.
The latest spell comes just a day after heavy rain caused widespread waterlogging and traffic congestion across Delhi-NCR. Gurugram and Faridabad were under a yellow alert, while Noida remained heavily overcast.
IndiGo, Akasa Air and Air India Issue Travel Advisories
The bad weather has also affected air travel.
IndiGo warned passengers that heavy rain in Delhi could lead to flight delays.
The airline asked passengers to check their flight status through its website or app before leaving for the airport.
Travellers were also advised to leave early as traffic conditions could be slower than usual.
Akasa Air said severe weather in Delhi had affected some flights across its network.
The airline asked passengers to check their flight status before starting their journey.
Air India also warned that flights to and from Delhi could be affected by the weather.
Passengers were advised to check their updated flight status and keep extra travel time in hand.
The advisories came after Monday’s rain and thunderstorms disrupted flight operations.
During the day, 26 flights were cancelled, 15 were diverted and more than 390 flights were delayed, according to the report.
Delhi Has Already Received Above-Normal Monsoon Rain
The latest rainfall has pushed Delhi’s monsoon rainfall above normal levels at several weather stations.
Till August 24, Safdarjung recorded 246.2 mm of rainfall, compared with the normal 191.1 mm. This was 29% above normal.
Palam received 227.2 mm, which was 28% above normal, while Lodi Road recorded 233.2 mm, or 22% above normal.
The increase was even higher at some other stations. Ridge recorded 243 mm, which was 50% above normal, while Ayanagar received 266.3 mm, 66% more than its normal rainfall.
IMD Warns People to Stay Alert
The IMD said the heavy rainfall was linked to the interaction of a western disturbance with a lower-level weather system extending towards southwest Uttar Pradesh.
With more rain and thunderstorms possible, residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
People should also stay away from trees and weak structures during thunderstorms.
Commuters are advised to check traffic and road conditions before leaving home, while air passengers should check their flight status before heading to the airport.
