Delhi Experiences Evening Rain, IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds

IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms Across Multiple Districts

Evening Showers Provide Relief from Humidity

Delhi’s Monsoon Rainfall Remains Below Normal

Understanding the ‘Normal’ Rainfall Classification

Residents Urged to Stay Informed and Exercise Caution

Delhi’s Evening Rain Brings Much-Needed Relief Amid Yellow Alert for Thunderstorms

Delhi, October 2, 2023 — Several parts of the national capital experienced a refreshing downpour on Monday evening, providing a welcome break from the oppressive humidity that has gripped the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Yellow Alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across multiple districts, signaling residents to stay vigilant.

According to the IMD’s district-level nowcast released at 4:24 PM, light rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and winds gusting at 30-40 kmph, is expected to persist until late evening. The forecast covers a wide swath of the city, including South East Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, Central Delhi, North East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, South West Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi, North Delhi, as well as neighboring Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad.

Rain Offers Respite from Humidity

The evening showers brought much-needed relief from the muggy conditions that had characterized the day. As temperatures dipped, residents took a moment to enjoy the cooler air. However, the rain also had its downsides, affecting traffic flow across various areas. Commuters faced slower travel times during the evening rush hour, prompting authorities to advise motorists to exercise caution due to wet roads and reduced visibility.

Below-Normal Monsoon Rainfall Continues

Despite the recent showers, Delhi’s cumulative monsoon rainfall remains below the seasonal average. From June 1 to July 25, the capital recorded just 247.8 mm of rainfall, significantly lower than the normal 365.3 mm for the same period, resulting in a 14% deficit. Nevertheless, the IMD continues to classify Delhi’s rainfall as ‘normal’ based on its criteria, which considers a departure of less than 19% from the long-term average as acceptable.

Understanding the IMD’s Rainfall Classification

The IMD categorizes seasonal rainfall based on its deviation from historical averages. A deficit of more than 19% is classified as a deficit, while a range between -19% and +19% is deemed normal. Rainfall exceeding 20% above normal falls into the ‘excess’ category, with anything above 60% classified as ‘large excess.’ Currently, with a 14% shortfall, Delhi remains within the ‘normal’ range.

Stay Updated and Cautious

As thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected to continue into the evening, residents are urged to stay informed through the latest IMD updates. Localized waterlogging, reduced visibility, and traffic congestion may occur in low-lying areas during intense rainfall. Authorities recommend exercising caution while traveling to ensure safety.

With the weather finally shifting, Delhiites can hope for more rain in the coming days, even as they navigate the challenges that accompany it.

Inputs from agencies