Delhi Rains Lead to Flight Disruptions, Waterlogging Across City; IMD Issues Red Alert
Heavy rain and gusty winds lashed Delhi and surrounding NCR regions on Tuesday, causing significant disruption to air travel and resulting in waterlogging across parts of the city. Between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm on June 17, a total of 12 flights were diverted from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport due to adverse weather conditions.
In a passenger advisory issued at 3:35 pm, Delhi Airport stated that flight operations might be impacted by the inclement weather starting from 15:15 hours. Passengers were advised to contact their respective airlines for real-time flight updates.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert around 2:00 pm, warning of an approaching thunderstorm, hail, and intense rain for Delhi and adjoining areas including Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and parts of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. The warning also highlighted gusty winds ranging from 50 to 70 km/h, along with lightning and isolated hailstorms.
“Rain and strong winds hit parts of Delhi and adjoining cities on Tuesday, resulting in waterlogging in some areas as well as flight diversions at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.”
The weather turned significantly cooler and more pleasant, offering a much-needed respite from the searing heat that has gripped the region over the past week. According to IMD forecasts, Delhi is expected to see light to moderate rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of up to 60 km/h until Thursday. A ‘yellow alert’ remains in place.
On Tuesday, the minimum temperature was recorded at 29°C, and the maximum was expected to reach 34°C. Air quality also improved, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) settling in the “satisfactory” category at 96 at 9 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The rain spell brought temporary relief to residents but also caused traffic snarls, flight delays, and localized flooding in low-lying areas. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the monsoon continues to advance across North India.