City temperatures drop sharply after overnight rains; IMD flags wind speeds touching 100+ kmph and advises caution
New Delhi, June 15:
Delhi received a much-needed shower of relief early Sunday morning as intense rains, thunderstorms, and gusty winds swept through the capital, breaking a prolonged stretch of severe heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for severe thunderstorms and strong winds, cautioning residents to stay indoors as wind speeds reached dangerous levels.
The IMD reported “moderate to intense rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and squally winds” reaching 80–100 kmph, bringing a drastic dip in temperatures and improved air quality across the National Capital Region (NCR).
Visuals from Krishi Bhavan, Rafi Marg, and Udyog Bhawan captured the ferocity of the early-morning storm, as heavy downpour and strong winds lashed the city. The rainfall provided instant relief, especially after days of maximum temperatures crossing 45°C, creating sweltering and near-unbearable conditions.
According to the IMD’s report, two thundersqualls hit Safdarjung between 03:48 to 04:00 AM IST, the first recording wind gusts of 82 kmph and the second peaking at 104 kmph. There were also reports of hailstorm activity during this period.
The IMD advisory read:
“Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Strong winds may cause damage to structures, flying debris, and low visibility on roads.”
Despite the welcome rain, the storm disrupted early morning traffic with waterlogging reported in several low-lying areas. Emergency response teams were mobilised across the capital to manage fallen trees, traffic diversions, and clear blocked drains.
Preceding Heatwave Conditions
Before Sunday’s rain, Delhi was in the grip of a relentless heatwave, with temperatures well above normal. On Thursday, many parts of the capital recorded maximums above 43°C, and the IMD had forecasted heatwave-like conditions across Delhi-NCR extending into the weekend.
Temperature data from IMD’s weather stations included:
- Ayanagar: 45.0°C (Max) / 30.5°C (Min)
- Palam: 44.5°C (Max) / 30.2°C (Min)
- Ridge: 43.6°C (Max) / 26.2°C (Min)
- Lodhi Road: 43.4°C (Max) / 29.2°C (Min)
- Safdarjung: 43.3°C (Max) / [Data Pending]
Earlier this week, the IMD had flagged an ongoing high-pressure zone over North India, warning that temperatures in Delhi could breach 45°C, prompting health advisories on heatstroke prevention and water consumption.
Sunday’s dramatic weather shift is part of a larger pre-monsoon pattern, though the official Southwest Monsoon onset over Delhi is yet to be confirmed by IMD.