An apparent weather change is taking place in Delhi after several weeks of heat wave, during which the mercury rose to over 40C even in April. It seems to be associated with the activity of the western disturbance affecting much of North India, West India, and Central India, causing clouds and rainfall as well as thunderstorms in various areas.
Delhi has been experiencing lower temperatures in recent days, with the thermometer dropping below 40C. On Sunday, May 3, the IMD has predicted a maximum of about 37C and a minimum of about 27C. Cloudy skies will persist for most of the day, with higher intensity of weather activity anticipated in the latter half of the day.
Yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for May 3 and 4, cautioning residents about incoming rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. An IMD official told Press Trust of India (PTI), "A spell of very light to light rain, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds of 30-40 km/h, gusting up to 50 km/h, is likely to occur on Sunday." Similar conditions are expected to continue into Monday.
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Wind speeds during this period may reach up to 50 km/h, accompanied by brief spells of rainfall and possible dust storms in parts of the National Capital Region.
Western disturbance to keep temperatures in check
According to Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet, the current pattern may persist for a few more days. Speaking to PTI, he said, " A fresh western disturbance is expected to influence the region in the coming days, leading to a cyclonic circulation over adjoining areas. Light rain might occur in parts of the city for the next few days, and there is no possibility of a heatwave at least for the next week."
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Impact on air quality
Thunderstorms and rainfall often help reduce dust and airborne pollutants, which can temporarily improve air quality in Delhi. However, localized factors such as runoff may lead to short-term fluctuations in pollution levels. Overall, rainfall is expected to bring a brief improvement, though residents are advised to track air quality updates following weather activity.
ANI With cloudy skies, gusty winds, and intermittent rain on the forecast, Delhi is likely to experience a relatively cooler and more comfortable start to May compared to the scorching conditions seen earlier.
