Rain, Thunderstorms Hit Delhi-NCR, Bringing Colder Weather and Hope of Pollution Relief
Weather conditions in the national capital and the surrounding NCR region took a noticeable turn on Friday morning as light rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, swept across several areas. The sudden change has intensified the winter chill, with residents experiencing colder conditions than in recent days. While the unseasonal rainfall has led to a dip in temperatures, it has also raised hopes of temporary relief from Delhi’s persistent air pollution.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an active western disturbance is influencing weather patterns across the region. As a result, rainfall activity is expected to improve air quality levels. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 313 on Thursday, categorised as ‘very poor’. Meteorologists anticipate that rainfall and gusty winds will help disperse pollutants, leading to gradual improvement in air quality.
IMD forecasts suggest that one or two spells of light rain are likely between morning and early afternoon on Friday, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and winds blowing at speeds of 30–40 kmph. Another round of very light rainfall may occur later in the afternoon or evening. The department has also indicated the possibility of light fog during the morning hours and has issued a Yellow Alert, urging people to remain cautious amid unstable weather conditions.
Rain alert across Delhi-NCR
The weather department has identified several parts of Delhi that are likely to be affected by light to moderate rainfall. These include Narela, Bawana, Alipur, Burari, Kanjhawala, Rohini, Badli, Azadpur, Model Town, Pitampura, Mundka, Paschim Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, Rajouri Garden, Jafarpur, Najafgarh, and Dwarka. Residents in these areas may experience intermittent showers and gusty winds throughout the day.
Cold wave conditions intensify
The rainfall, combined with strong winds, has brought back biting cold conditions across the capital. The minimum temperature on Friday morning is expected to dip below normal levels. The IMD has advised people to take adequate precautions against the cold, warning that post-rain westerly winds could further increase the chill factor, especially during early morning and late evening hours.
Yellow Alert issued for Friday
A Yellow Alert remains in effect for Friday, with the IMD predicting multiple spells of light to moderate rainfall over the next few days. The ongoing western disturbance is expected to keep weather conditions unsettled, with cloud cover and sporadic rain dominating the day.
Cloudy skies to persist
Following the alert, the IMD noted that skies over Delhi-NCR will remain largely overcast. In its bulletin, the department stated that the region may witness very light to light rain along with thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph. Light to moderate fog is also likely during the morning hours, which could impact visibility.
Thunderstorm activity across North India
The weather system is not limited to Delhi alone. Between January 22 and 24, several parts of North India are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. States such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh may witness strong winds and stormy conditions, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor activities.