New Delhi: A sudden and dramatic shift in weather conditions swept across Delhi on Wednesday evening, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and an unexpected drop in temperatures—giving residents a brief return to winter-like conditions just as the city was transitioning into summer.
Sudden Storm Triggers Sharp Temperature Drop
The abrupt weather change was caused by an active Western Disturbance over northwest India, which intensified rapidly. Strong winds reaching up to 68 km/h lashed several parts of the capital, followed by short but intense spells of rainfall.
Within just an hour, temperatures plummeted from around 29°C to nearly 19°C, catching residents off guard and disrupting daily life, including flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
‘Rare’ Weather System Raises Concerns
Weather experts have termed the current system unusual due to its structure and intensity. According to climate observers, the disturbance features a rare, long trough stretching thousands of kilometres—capable of triggering powerful thunderstorms and dense cloud formation.
This rare configuration is expected to sustain unstable weather conditions across North India over the coming days.
More Rain & Winter-Like Chill Ahead
Forecasts indicate that the impact is far from over. Multiple spells of rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds are expected across Delhi-NCR and neighbouring regions including Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Experts suggest that temperatures may remain 10–15°C below normal, with maximum temperatures likely to hover between 16°C and 22°C in several areas—conditions more typical of peak winter than mid-March.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Thursday and Friday, warning of continued light to moderate rainfall and winds of up to 50 km/h.
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Wednesday max temperature: 33.6°C (above normal)
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Expected Thursday: 28–30°C
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Expected Friday: 26–28°C (may dip further during peak spell)
Weather officials have indicated that the peak intensity of the system is likely on Friday, with overcast skies, thunderstorms, and further cooling.
Snowfall in Himalayas, Wider Impact Across North India
The weather system is also expected to bring heavy snowfall in the Himalayan regions, further contributing to the cold air influx across northern plains.
Advisory for Residents
Authorities and weather experts are advising residents to:
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Stay prepared for sudden weather changes
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Avoid unnecessary travel during storms
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Keep warm clothing handy as temperatures may dip further
What began as a brief evening storm has now evolved into a prolonged spell of unseasonal rain, reminding Delhiites that winter isn’t quite ready to say goodbye yet.
