Delhi Weather Today: Heavy Rains Bring Relief and Disruption
Delhi woke up to a deluge this morning, with heavy rainfall and strong winds bringing much-needed relief from the recent heatwave. However, the downpour also caused significant traffic chaos and disruption across the city. This article covers the impact of the unprecedented rainfall, including the record-breaking totals, traffic snarls, flight delays, and sadly, a tragic incident.
Record Rainfall and its Impact
The Safdarjung Observatory recorded an astonishing 77mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours—the highest May rainfall in Delhi's history, surpassing the previous record of 60mm set in 1976. This intense rainfall, coupled with winds gusting up to 80 km/h, led to widespread waterlogging, uprooted trees, and numerous traffic jams. Mukesh, a commuter stuck in traffic near DDU Marg since 5 am, described the rain as a welcome respite from the heat but highlighted the resulting delays and disruption caused by a traffic accident.
Safety Concerns and Casualties
Tragically, four people—a woman and her three children—died after a neem tree fell on their makeshift home near Jaffarpur Kalan. This underscores the dangers of severe weather and the importance of heeding weather warnings. The IMD issued a red alert, urging citizens to stay indoors and avoid taking shelter under trees.
Government Response and Ongoing Situation
Delhi's Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, visited affected areas like Majnu Ka Tila to assess the waterlogging situation and directed officials to take immediate action. The PWD Minister, Parvesh Verma, also inspected waterlogged areas such as Minto Bridge. The Aam Aadmi Party criticized the BJP-led government's handling of the situation, citing inadequate infrastructure and drainage systems. Despite the initial chaos, airport operations have largely returned to normal, although some delays persist.
IMD Forecast and Advice
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Delhi, predicting moderate rain until May 8, with thunderstorms expected. Their advisory strongly advises against taking shelter under trees, near water bodies, and urges citizens to stay informed about weather updates and remain indoors when possible. The IMD's prediction of scattered to fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across the region, reinforces the need for continued caution.
Conclusion:
Delhi's sudden downpour highlights both the relief from extreme heat and the vulnerability of urban infrastructure to severe weather events. The tragic loss of life underscores the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines during extreme weather conditions. Stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and follow official advisories for your safety.
