New Delhi: A ‘yellow alert’ for Delhi-NCR for Wednesday has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather department has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, and light to moderate rain. There’s also a forecast about thundersqualls with wind speeds ranging between 50 and 60 kmph, especially during the night hours.
In Delhi, daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum is likely to settle near 27 degrees Celsius.
IMD warns of thunderstorms, lightning, and travel disruptions
The IMD issued an advisory, warning of a moderate thunderstorm. It also warned of potential hazards, including intense lightning in open areas, traffic disruptions, and likely delays to flight and train services. The alert also pointed to risks to livestock and those involved in outdoor activities.
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The yellow alert for Delhi will remain until Thursday. There are indications that chances of rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds will continue. People have been asked to stay indoors and venture out only if necessary. The IMD further advised unplugging electrical appliances during storms to safeguard against any lightning-related damage.
The Met department has also cautioned people against seeking shelter under trees or metal structures. They have advised to desist from using mobile phones in open areas during lightning. Farmers and outdoor workers have been instructed to stop their activities and seek shelter immediately in case of inclement weather conditions.
The weather office has appealed to the public to stay updated through its official website and reliable media outlets.
Flights diverted due to rain
Pre-monsoon showers provided some respite from the scorching heat on Tuesday. However, it also led to waterlogging and traffic snarls in various parts across the city.
Due to the adverse weather conditions, 14 flights were diverted from Delhi airport between 3 and 4pm, a PTI report said. Six were diverted to Bhopal, three to Chandigarh, two to Amritsar, and one each to Ahmedabad, Varanasi, and Lucknow. Flightradar24.com data showed that more than 400 flights were delayed, and some were also cancelled.
The showers caused water to accumulate knee-deep in areas like the Delhi Cantonment underpass, Zakhira Underpass, Pul Prahladpur, ITO, and stretches of Delhi Najafgarh Road and Rohtak Road. Traffic came to a halt at some places due to water logging.
