New Delhi: Delhi witnessed a sudden weather change on Friday after a day of intense heat and sunshine. The sweltering conditions persisted through the day, making it difficult for residents to step outside. However, by evening, gusty winds swept across the city, accompanied by heavy rainfall in several areas, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. The downpour led to a noticeable drop in temperature.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi is likely to experience thunderstorms and rain on Saturday as well. The city is expected to remain windy over the next two days, with temperatures forecast to dip further. On May 20 and 21, the weather will likely remain partly cloudy, with maximum temperatures around 38°C and minimum temperatures ranging between 25°C and 26°C.
Rain forecast across multiple states
Over the next seven days, northeastern states are set to face thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya from May 16 to May 21. Similarly, light rain with gusty winds is predicted in Kerala and Karnataka, along with possible thunderstorms in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rayalaseema, and other parts of Karnataka.
Extended rain alert in Karnataka
Karnataka is likely to see continued rainfall activity for the next 13 days, with heavy showers expected in some areas. Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada may also experience lightning and strong winds from May 17 to May 22. Particularly on May 20 and 21, strong winds are expected in Madhya Maharashtra and Goa and isolated heavy rainfall is likely in parts of Madhya Maharashtra, South Konkan, and Goa.
Winds and storms in central and eastern states
Several states—including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal—are likely to experience lightning and strong winds. Odisha is expected to be particularly windy on May 16 and 17, while Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh could see similar conditions till May 19. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are on alert for heavy rainfall at isolated locations from May 17 to 20.
Hail and dust storms in north India
Northern hill states such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are expected to face strong winds from May 17 to 21. A rain alert has also been issued for Uttar Pradesh and eastern Rajasthan during this period. Scattered showers are likely in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh.
There is also a chance of hailstorms in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Meanwhile, western Rajasthan is likely to be hit by dust storms between May 17 and 19. Despite the rain forecast, heatwave conditions are likely in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir on May 18. Hot and humid conditions will persist in Uttar Pradesh, western Rajasthan, northern Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha.
