NEW DELHI – Heavy overnight rains brought a welcome cooldown but caused widespread waterlogging across Delhi and NCR on Monday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for the first half of the day. The alert comes as the monsoon trough hovers directly over the region, with more rain forecast throughout the week.
According to IMD officials, the monsoon will remain active in northwest India, particularly in the early morning and nighttime hours, through July 14.
Rainfall Readings: Najafgarh Sees the Heaviest Downpour
While most of Delhi recorded light to moderate rainfall, some areas saw significantly heavier showers:
- Najafgarh: 95 mm
- Palam: 20.8 mm
- Ayanagar: 10 mm
- Janakpuri: 14 mm
- Lodhi Road: 13.5 mm
- Safdarjung (Base Station): 11.8 mm
- Ridge & Pragati Maidan: 4.3 mm
- Narela: 0.5 mm
According to the IMD, rainfall is classified as:
- Light: up to 15.5 mm
- Moderate: 15.6 mm to 64.4 mm
- Heavy: more than 64.4 mm in 24 hours
Traffic Woes: Waterlogging on Key Roads
Waterlogging was reported from several major arteries, most notably:
- Mehrauli-Badarpur Road
- Rohtak Road (Nangloi to Mundka)
The Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories on X, warning commuters to avoid these stretches due to waterlogging, potholes, and ongoing repair work.
“Traffic is affected on Rohtak Road in both carriageways… due to waterlogging and sewer/road repairs by PWD. Commuters are advised to plan their journey accordingly.”
Monsoon Outlook: More Rain Coming
Weather enthusiast Ashwary Tiwari, who runs the IndiaMetSky account, shared that a combination of monsoon axis activity and a shear zone at mid-levels, aided by a western disturbance, will result in good rainfall in northwest India from July 7 to July 14.
The monsoon officially reached Delhi on June 29, two days later than normal, though it arrived nine days early for the rest of India. Despite the onset, Delhi has so far received only 17.7 mm of rain in July, far below the monthly normal of 209.7 mm.
Last year, Delhi recorded 203.7 mm in July.
Air Quality Update: Still Satisfactory
Despite the increased humidity, Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘satisfactory’ range for the 12th consecutive day, thanks in part to rain-induced cleansing. At 9 am Monday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 81, slightly above the Sunday 4 pm reading of 75.
What’s Next?
With an active monsoon trough, low-level moisture, and ongoing atmospheric disturbances, Delhi and surrounding regions are likely to witness moderate to heavy showers through the upcoming week.
Citizens are advised to:
- Avoid waterlogged routes
- Follow Delhi Traffic Police updates
- Be alert to flash flood-prone areas
- Prepare for disruptions in public transport during early mornings and evenings
FAQs
Q: Why was an orange alert issued in Delhi?
A: Due to the active monsoon trough and potential for moderate to heavy rain during the first half of the day, which may cause localized flooding and traffic disruptions.
Q: How much rainfall has Delhi received this July?
A: So far, only 17.7 mm, far below the monthly normal of 209.7 mm.
Q: Which area recorded the most rainfall?
A: Najafgarh, with 95 mm of rainfall in 24 hours.
Q: What is Delhi’s AQI today?
A: As of 9 am, the AQI is 81, which is considered satisfactory.
Stay updated with official advisories and be cautious while commuting as Delhi braces for a rainy and waterlogged week ahead.