Heavy rain and storm activity swept across Delhi NCR after the India Meteorological Department issued urgent nowcast warnings, forecasting intense thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds over a short time window, with conditions already disrupting daily life.
The weather department placed several parts of Delhi under red alert, including central, eastern, northern, and western districts, indicating a high likelihood of severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60 to 80 kilometres per hour, along with moderate rainfall. Similar high-impact conditions were forecast for multiple districts in Haryana and parts of Uttar Pradesh, signalling a broader regional weather disturbance.
Alongside the red alerts, orange warnings were issued for parts of southern and northern India, including states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. These regions are expected to experience thunderstorms with relatively lower wind speeds but still significant rainfall and lightning activity.
The fast-developing weather system has also affected air travel operations. Airlines such as SpiceJet and IndiGo issued advisories warning passengers of possible delays and disruptions to both arrivals and departures due to adverse conditions over Delhi. Travellers have been advised to check flight status before heading to the airport as schedules continue to be adjusted.
Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors where possible, avoid taking shelter under trees or unstable structures, and limit unnecessary travel during the storm period. With lightning and strong winds posing safety risks, people have been advised to follow official updates closely as the situation continues to evolve.
