Light rain, thunderstorms likely in Delhi-NCR; air quality remains moderate
New Delhi, June 16
The India Meteorological Department has predicted partly cloudy conditions across Delhi-NCR on Tuesday, with the possibility of very light to light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
According to the weather department, strong surface winds are also expected to sweep across the region, reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, with gusts occasionally touching 60 kmph. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may remain in the range of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius. The changing weather pattern is expected to provide periodic relief from the prevailing summer heat.
The forecast comes after Delhi-NCR witnessed a noticeable change in weather on Monday, bringing respite from the intense heat and humidity that had affected the region in recent days. Several parts of the national capital received showers during the day, accompanied by dust storms and strong winds. The sudden change in conditions prompted weather authorities to issue advisories as gusty winds moved across the city.
Residents woke up to rainfall and overcast skies on Monday as an active western disturbance continued to influence weather across northwestern India. The system contributed to cooler temperatures and improved weather conditions, offering relief from the prolonged spell of hot weather.
Meteorologists have indicated that light to moderate rainfall is likely to persist over the next few days, helping keep temperatures under control. In the plains, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh and western Uttar Pradesh, isolated to scattered rainfall activity is expected to continue until June 19.
Weather experts said the current pattern is linked to a western disturbance moving across northwest India. As the system gradually advances, rainfall intensity is expected to decrease, shifting from the widespread heavy showers witnessed in recent days to lighter and more moderate precipitation across the region.
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the "moderate" category on Monday. Air Quality Index (AQI) readings included 164 at Anand Vihar, 143 at Bawana, 152 at Burari Crossing, 137 at Chandni Chowk, 132 at DTU, 187 at Dwarka Sector-8, 174 at IIT Delhi, 132 at ITO, 159 at Narela, 151 at Pusa, 157 at R.K. Puram, 167 at Sonia Vihar and 185 at Wazirpur.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Moderate AQI is still concerning though. With rain, I thought it would be better. 185 at Wazirpur is high for "moderate" category. Why can't we get more green covers in Delhi? Every time it rains, dust and pollution mix, making the air unhealthy. We need long-term solutions.
I moved here from London last year and I'm still amazed at how dramatic the weather can be. Yesterday's dust storm was something else! The rain is nice but the winds are scary. Stay safe everyone! 🌀
Western disturbance saving us again. But let's be honest, this is just a temporary fix. We need rain harvesting systems and better urban planning. In Noida, the waterlogging after even a light shower is a nightmare. The authorities should use this rain period to check drainage systems.
The weather is definitely giving us a break. I was in Delhi last week and it was 42°C. Now with these forecasts, I'm planning a trip to India Gate tomorrow. But those gusty winds up to 60 kmph - better keep the umbrellas sturdy! 😅
My plants are loving this rain! The garden was so dry. And my son is thrilled because no school in this weather. But the AQI numbers are a joke - 164 is not "moderate", it's unhealthy. Every time it rains, we see these numbers and think it's fine. We're getting too comfortable with bad air.
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