Delhi’s Record-Breaking Rainfall: IMD Issues Yellow Alert Amidst Severe Weather Disruptions

KKN Gurugram Desk |  Delhi experienced an unexpected and intense weather event, recording its second-highest single-day rainfall in May since 1901. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported 77 mm of rain at Safdarjung between 2:30 am and 8:30 am, leading to widespread disruptions across the city.

Unforeseen Deluge: IMD’s Forecast Challenges

Initially, the IMD had predicted moderate rainfall for Delhi. However, the severity of the downpour surpassed expectations, prompting the department to upgrade its alert to ‘Red’ early Friday morning. IMD Director-General M. Mohapatra acknowledged the difficulty in forecasting such localized pre-monsoon thunderstorms, attributing the challenge to the complex interplay of atmospheric conditions.

Impact on Daily Life: Fatalities and Infrastructure Strain

The sudden storm led to tragic consequences, including the death of four family members in Najafgarh when a tree collapsed on their residence. Additionally, a construction worker in Green Park was electrocuted during the storm. The city faced significant infrastructure challenges, with over 500 flights delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport, metro services disrupted, and major traffic congestion due to waterlogging and fallen trees.

Meteorological Factors: Understanding the Sudden Storm

Experts from Skymet Weather explained that the combination of high daytime temperatures exceeding 40°C and increased moisture levels led to the formation of thunderclouds, a common pre-monsoon phenomenon. The convergence of moisture from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, along with favorable synoptic conditions in the lower and middle tropospheric levels, triggered the heavy rainfall.

Temperature Fluctuations: A Brief Respite from the Heat

The storm brought a temporary relief from the prevailing heatwave conditions. Delhi’s maximum temperature dropped to 29.1°C, which is 10.2°C below the normal for this time of year. The minimum temperature was recorded at 22.2°C, providing a cooler climate for residents.

IMD’s Ongoing Alerts: Preparing for Continued Inclement Weather

In response to the severe weather, the IMD issued a Yellow Alert for Delhi, forecasting the possibility of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds ranging from 30 to 40 km/h over the next few days. Residents are advised to stay indoors during storms, avoid sheltering under trees, and unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage.

The recent events underscore the unpredictability of pre-monsoon weather patterns and the importance of preparedness. While technological advancements have improved forecasting capabilities, the dynamic nature of weather systems continues to pose challenges. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during such events.