Delhi on red alert as IMD forecasts thunderstorms, strong winds; airlines warn of possible flight disruptions

On Tuesday morning, parts of Delhi received light to moderate rainfall, leading the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert in several districts and an orange alert in others. The alerts are valid until 1:30 pm.

The current spell of rainfall is likely to bring some relief from the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. According to the data available with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi deteriorated to the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday morning. The Sameer app recorded an AQI of 310. This comes after a brief improvement in air quality following a rainfall that lasted for almost a day on Monday.

Districts under red and orange alerts

According to the nowcast issued by the IMD, North Delhi, North West Delhi, Central Delhi, North East Delhi, West Delhi, and South West Delhi have been issued a red alert. These regions are expected to receive moderate rain along with thunderstorms, lightning, and hail. Wind speed may reach 40-60 kmph, the IMD said.

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Meanwhile, South East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, Shahdara, and East Delhi are under an orange alert, with predictions of moderate rainfall and thunderstorms.

Light to moderate rainfall was also recorded in some areas of the Delhi-NCR. The weather agency has forecast partly cloudy skies with one or two instances of rain/thundershowers in the adjacent areas of Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad.

Airlines issue travel advisories

Airlines have also issued advisories in light of the deteriorating weather conditions. IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet have warned passengers that flight schedules may be affected due to rain and strong winds in the Delhi-NCR region.

Taking to X, IndiGo wrote, “Bad weather over #Delhi has impacted flight schedules. We are closely monitoring the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly.”

They requested the passengers to stay updated on flight status via their website or app. “Please be assured that our teams are here to assist you at every step and provide full support. We look forward to clearer skies and a swift return to our regular schedule. Thank you for your patience and understanding”, they further wrote.

Akasa Air has confirmed disruptions on some routes, including flights to/from Delhi, and has asked passengers to check before proceeding to the airport.

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SpiceJet has also warned passengers of possible delays in arrival, departure, and connecting flights due to heavy rain.

Passengers have been advised to plan their travel accordingly and be aware of official announcements.