Delhi: Rain lashes several parts of national capital, brings respite from heat
New Delhi, May 4
Residents of the national capital witnessed rain lashing several parts on Monday, bringing much-needed respite from the intense summer heat.
The fresh spell of rain comes after similar showers were recorded in the city on Saturday, indicating changing weather conditions over the past few days.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday, in its latest monthly outlook, predicted that India would experience above-normal rainfall in May 2026, even as temperature patterns remain mixed across regions, with some parts expected to face above-normal heatwave conditions.
"During May 2026, maximum temperatures are expected to be normal to below normal across many parts of the country," the IMD said in a press release issued by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
However, it added that "above-normal temperatures are likely in many parts of southern peninsular India, some parts of the northeast, and northwest India." The weather agency said minimum temperatures are expected to remain above normal over large parts of the country, although some regions in northwest, central, and adjoining peninsular India may see normal to below-normal night temperatures.
In heatwave conditions, the IMD warned that "above-normal heatwave days are likely over some parts of the foothills of the Himalayas, east coast states, Gujarat, and Maharashtra," indicating a continued risk of extreme heat in select regions.
Rainfall during the month is likely to be stronger than average nationwide. "The rainfall during May 2026, averaged over the country as a whole, is most likely to be above normal (>110% of LPA)," the IMD said, referring to the long-period average. However, it cautioned that parts of east, northeast, and east-central India could receive below-normal rainfall.
The IMD noted that broader climate signals are shifting, with oceanic conditions pointing towards a warmer phase ahead. "ENSO-neutral conditions are evolving towards El Nino conditions over the equatorial Pacific," it said, adding that models indicate El Nino development during the upcoming southwest monsoon season. It also said neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions currently prevail, but "positive IOD conditions are likely to develop towards the end of the monsoon season."
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is good news for now, but I'm worried about the El Nino conditions. The IMD says above-normal rainfall in May but then warns about heatwaves in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Bit confusing, no? 🤔
I appreciate the IMD's efforts, but their predictions often miss the mark. Last year they said normal monsoon, and we had floods in Kerala. Let's hope this time they're right. Would be great if the rain stays consistent.
Bhai, this rain is a blessing! AC ka bill toh kam hoga, par yeh El Nino ki baat thodi unsettling hai. Let's just enjoy the weather for now. 💧☁️
Thank God for this respite! Delhi summers are no joke. But the IMD should also focus on preparedness for floods and heatwaves, especially in coastal areas. Prediction is one thing, action is another.
Rain in Delhi is always a vibe! Just hope the drainage system holds up. Last time it rained, roads were waterlogged for hours. Still, I'm not complaining. 🌈
Living in Delhi for work, and this rain is a welcome change from the 45°C heat last week. But the article mentions above-normal heat in other parts
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.