Delhi is set to see a brief spell of relief from the recent heat as rain and thunderstorms are expected between March 18 and March 20. After days of unusually warm conditions, temperatures have settled closer to seasonal norms, with further cooling likely over the next few days.
Rain, winds to dominate mid-week weather
According to the forecast, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds will affect the national capital over the next three days. Wind speeds are expected to range between 20 and 30 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 40 to 50 kmph at times. Weather experts have also indicated favourable conditions for dust storms and isolated hailstorm activity in some areas.
The ongoing western disturbance is expected to bring a cooling effect. He noted that cloud cover will increase, especially from Thursday, before the system weakens by Saturday, Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet Weather, told the Hindustan Times.
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Day-wise forecast
March 18: Skies will remain generally cloudy with chances of light rain and thunderstorms, particularly towards the evening or night. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover between 32C and 34C, slightly above normal, while night temperatures may range from 17C to 19C.
March 19: Overcast conditions are expected to continue, with spells of light rain or drizzle. Thunderstorms and strong winds are likely in the morning, followed by another round of rain and gusty winds later in the day. Wind speeds could reach up to 50 kmph during peak activity.
March 20: Cloudy skies will persist with light rain, thunderstorms, and lightning predicted. Wind speeds may remain between 30 and 50 kmph. Rainfall activity is expected to be relatively more widespread due to the influence of the western disturbance.
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Air quality remains moderate
Delhi’s air quality has remained in the ‘moderate’ category, with a 24-hour average AQI of 189, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. Forecasts suggest that AQI levels will stay within the same range over the next three days.
As per CPCB standards, an AQI between 101 and 200 falls under the ‘moderate’ category, indicating acceptable air quality with minor discomfort for sensitive groups.
