Sudden thunderstorms and rain swept across New Delhi on Tuesday evening, disrupting flight operations and forcing multiple diversions at the city’s main aviation hub. While the weather caused inconvenience for air travellers, it also brought a noticeable dip in temperatures and a welcome improvement in air quality.
Flights diverted amid storm activity
At least five incoming flights were diverted from Indira Gandhi International Airport due to adverse weather conditions, including thunderstorms and hail. Airport authorities had earlier issued an advisory warning of possible disruptions, urging passengers to check flight status before heading out.
Officials said the situation was closely monitored, with coordination between airlines and ground staff to ensure safety and restore normal operations as conditions improved. The airport, which handles over 1,300 flights daily, is particularly sensitive to sudden weather changes during peak hours.
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Sharp temperature drop and cleaner air
The same weather system that caused disruptions also brought relief from the intense summer heat. Temperatures across key monitoring stations fell well below normal levels, with several areas recording highs in the low 30s Celsius.
Rain and strong winds also helped clear pollutants, resulting in the cleanest air recorded in the city this year. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the Air Quality Index dropped to 86, placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category. This marks a rare improvement for the capital during early May, a period typically associated with rising pollution levels.
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Yellow alert and more rain forecast
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert, indicating the possibility of further rain and thunderstorms in isolated parts of the city. While not severe, such conditions can still lead to short-term disruptions in transport and daily life.
Several areas, including Dwarka and the airport vicinity, experienced intense hail showers, catching residents off guard. Rainfall varied across the city, with some stations recording moderate showers while others saw only trace amounts.
With weather patterns turning increasingly unpredictable, authorities have advised caution, especially for commuters and air travellers. For now, the showers have offered a brief respite from the heat, even as they serve as a reminder of how quickly conditions can shift.
