Delhi witnessed a sudden and striking shift in weather on Wednesday evening as rain, gusty winds and a sharp fall in temperature brought back a winter-like chill just as the city was transitioning toward summer. The change was driven by an active western disturbance over northwest India that intensified rapidly.

Strong winds reaching up to 68 kmph swept across parts of the capital, followed by brief but intense rainfall. Within an hour, temperatures dropped sharply from around 29C to nearly 19C. The abrupt change caught many residents off guard and also disrupted flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

‘Rare’ weather system behind sudden change

Weather experts described the system as unusual. “An unusual Western Disturbance has reached North India. Its structure is quite different. A trough is situated in a straight line spanning thousands of kilometers, which is generally very rare. It has the capacity to create very strong thunderstorms and thunderclouds, so be cautious and follow IMD,” said Dr Pradeep, a climate scientist, in a post on X.

Another X post highlighted the rarity of the temperature dip. “Rare #Coldday conditions expected on 20th March amid rains in #Delhi NCR #Haryana #Punjab #Chandigarh #Rajasthan & w #UttarPradesh as maximum temperatures are likely in the range of 16 to 22C at most cities. Would be 10 to 15C below normal for the day. Bring your woollens out again!”

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In another post, he added, “Get ready for January kind of rains on 19th and 20th March, Sweater weather alert! Moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers and sudden drop in temperatures to a range of 18-24C maxtemp expected… Heavy snowfall accumulation predicted for #Himalayas. Dont pack your jackets yet, might need it for a day or two.”

Yellow alert issued, more rain ahead

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Thursday and Friday, forecasting multiple spells of light rain and winds up to 50 kmph. Peak intensity is expected on Friday with overcast skies and further cooling.

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An IMD official said, “We will see multiple spells of light rain across Delhi-NCR on Thursday and Friday. This will keep the maximum temperature in check, likely below 32C even over the weekend.”

Mahesh Palawat of Skymet added, “Peak intensity is likely on Friday, with overcast skies and ample rain. The maximum should dip below 30 degrees Celsius.”

With more rain expected, residents have been advised to stay prepared for sudden weather changes.