IMD Issues Yellow Alert as Rain, Thunderstorm Hit Delhi NCR

Sudden Weather Shift After Warm January Days

After several days of rising daytime temperatures, Delhi and the National Capital Region witnessed a sharp change in weather on Friday morning. Strong winds, cloud cover and rainfall were reported across multiple areas, bringing temporary relief from the recent warmth but also causing disruptions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that rainfall activity is expected to continue for around two hours, accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms.

Strong Winds and Widespread Rainfall

From around 6.30 am, winds blowing at speeds of 30–40 kilometres per hour swept through Delhi NCR. In some areas, wind speeds touched 37 kilometres per hour. The weather system led to overcast skies and intermittent rainfall across large parts of the region.

The weather disturbance follows other recent environmental events in the region, including a mild earthquake reported in Delhi NCR earlier this week.

Rain was reported from Burari, Alipur, Bawana, Rohini, Badli, Model Town, Azadpur, Pitampura, Mundka, Paschim Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, Rajouri Garden, Najafgarh, Dwarka and Kanjhawala. Dwarka Sector-9 recorded steady rainfall during the early hours.

Yellow Alert Issued for Safety

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi NCR, warning of dust-laden winds, thunderstorms and reduced visibility. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious, especially during periods of strong wind and rain, and to avoid unnecessary travel during intense weather spells.

The department noted that dark cloud cover may persist during the day due to the ongoing system.

Temperature and Air Quality Snapshot

On Friday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 18 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 11 degrees Celsius, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 249. Other NCR cities also reported poor air quality, including Noida (AQI 263), Ghaziabad (289), Gurugram (239), Greater Noida (279) and Faridabad (320). These readings reflect data recorded on Friday.

Outlook for Coming Days

Following the rainfall, maximum temperatures are expected to dip for the next three days, while minimum temperatures may see a gradual rise. Weather conditions are likely to remain unstable between January 23 and January 26.

After January 26, the weather is expected to clear, with reduced fog impact and brighter conditions. This winter season has seen limited cold wave conditions across Delhi NCR, with only one or two brief spells recorded so far.

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