Delhi-NCR Red Alert as Heavy Rains Hit
Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to heavy rain on Saturday, disrupting daily life across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several parts of Delhi and Ghaziabad, warning of very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning.
IMD’s Red Alert and Weather Forecast
The IMD issued the red alert for North, West, South, South-East, and Central Delhi. Ghaziabad also remains under red alert, while Gautambudhnagar is on yellow alert for possible thunderstorms and lightning. According to the IMD, moderate to heavy rain is expected in most parts of Delhi and NCR today.
In nearby Haryana, an orange alert has been issued for Palwal, Gurugram, and Faridabad, anticipating moderate to heavy showers.
Heavy downpour led to waterlogging at key locations including Panchkuian Marg, Minto Road, and Mathura Road. Bharat Mandapam’s Gate No. 7 also witnessed severe waterlogging early in the morning. Traffic slowed down in areas like Shastri Bhawan, RK Puram, Moti Bagh, and Kidwai Nagar, forcing commuters to spend extra hours on the road.
Impact on Flights and Transport
The rains caused major delays in air travel, with over 100 flights delayed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Road traffic was equally affected, as waterlogging forced diversions and slow movement on arterial roads. Public transport services also faced delays.
Temperature and Weather Conditions
Despite the heavy rainfall, the maximum temperature in Delhi is expected to hover between 32–34°C, while the minimum will stay between 24–26°C. Skies will remain partly cloudy, with light to moderate thundershowers predicted later in the day.
IMD’s Advisory for Residents
- Avoid non-essential travel during heavy rain.
- Stay away from low-lying and waterlogged areas.
- Secure loose items outdoors to prevent damage during strong winds.
- Follow traffic advisories and plan travel accordingly.
Updates for Surrounding States
In Himachal Pradesh, the IMD has issued an orange alert for August 11 and 12 in three districts, with heavy rain expected. A yellow alert remains for the remaining districts. The department warns of possible landslides and flooding in hilly areas.
Public Response and Preparedness
Residents in Delhi-NCR are preparing for continued rainfall, stocking up on essentials and adjusting work schedules. Municipal bodies are deploying pumps in low-lying areas to clear standing water, while traffic police are issuing regular updates.
Conclusion
The heavy rainfall in Delhi-NCR has brought both relief from heat and significant disruptions. With the IMD red alert in place, residents are urged to remain cautious, follow official advisories, and prepare for continued wet conditions over the weekend.