New Delhi/NCR: The national capital and its surrounding cities witnessed the first major spell of rain of the season on Friday as a powerful western disturbance swept across North India, bringing widespread showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds to Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, and Gurugram.
Rain began in the early hours of the morning and continued across several areas until around 11 a.m., accompanied by strong lightning and gusty winds in parts of the region. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather event was triggered by this year’s first intense western disturbance, which significantly altered atmospheric conditions over the National Capital Region (NCR).
Orange Alert Across Delhi
In response to the deteriorating weather conditions, IMD placed all districts of Delhi under an orange alert, as per its nowcast update issued around 11:15 a.m. The department forecast multiple spells of light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching 40–60 kmph, through the day.
Light showers began after 5:30 a.m., gradually intensifying across different parts of the city. The IMD bulletin issued around 11 a.m. warned of continued rainfall activity for at least two more hours in several NCR locations, including Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Manesar and Faridabad.
Flight Operations Disrupted at IGI Airport
The sudden change in weather conditions also impacted air traffic operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport). In an advisory, airport authorities stated that adverse weather particularly affected flights to and from Srinagar, though delays and disruptions were reported on other routes as well due to low visibility, rain, and strong winds.
Passengers were advised to check flight status before heading to the airport as weather-related delays continued through the morning hours.
Air Quality Improves, GRAP-3 Restrictions Eased
The rainfall brought temporary relief from severe air pollution, continuing the improving trend in Delhi’s air quality. The falling Air Quality Index (AQI) led to the removal of GRAP-3 restrictions on Thursday, and Friday’s rain further supported pollution dispersion.
At 8 a.m., Delhi’s average AQI stood at 293 (poor), showing improvement from 322 (very poor) recorded at 4 p.m. on Thursday. The rain, combined with strong winds, helped settle dust and suspended particulate matter, improving visibility and breathing conditions across the city.
Drop in Temperature, ‘Feels Like’ Colder Conditions
The sudden rain and cloud cover led to a noticeable dip in temperatures. While the actual temperature in Delhi hovered around 16°C, the ‘feels like’ temperature dropped to nearly 12°C by late morning, making the weather feel significantly colder for residents.
Many parts of NCR reported similar conditions, with overcast skies, chilly winds and continuous drizzles creating a winter-like atmosphere.
NCR Cities Also Under Alert
Parts of Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram received steady rainfall throughout the morning. These cities were also placed under orange alert till at least 2 p.m., with forecasts of continued light to moderate rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds.
The IMD stated that the western disturbance system would continue influencing weather patterns in the region, and residents should remain cautious due to the possibility of lightning strikes, strong winds and localized waterlogging.
Advisory to Residents
Authorities advised citizens to:
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Avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms
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Stay away from open areas during lightning
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Drive cautiously due to slippery roads and reduced visibility
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Follow official IMD updates and weather advisories
The first major rain spell of the season not only brought climatic relief but also highlighted the changing winter weather dynamics in North India, as western disturbances continue to play a crucial role in shaping rainfall, temperature and air quality patterns in the region.
