Delhi Hit by Week-Long Monsoon Storms as IMD Issues Yellow Alert and IGI Airport Cautions Travelers
DELHI, INDIA — The capital city is bracing for a week of persistent rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential travel disruptions as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi and neighboring regions. The warning, in effect through July 27, comes amid the activation of a strong monsoon system, triggered by a cyclonic circulation over western Rajasthan and an active trough extending from Jammu to the Bay of Bengal.
Following weeks of scorching summer temperatures, Delhi has welcomed the cooling rains, but authorities caution that the relief comes with risks. Heavy showers drenched the capital beginning Monday, turning the skies overcast and lowering temperatures significantly. Tuesday’s minimum temperature was recorded at 26°C, down from the oppressive highs seen earlier in the month.
The IMD forecasts a continued spell of light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and isolated lightning over Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and surrounding areas through the end of the week. Daily maximum temperatures are expected to hover around 34–35°C, tempered by intermittent showers and cloudy skies.
Yellow Alert Issued Across North India
The IMD has extended the yellow alert to cover Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh. The alert signals the potential for localized flooding, traffic disruptions, and visibility issues due to heavy rainfall and stormy conditions. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during peak rain hours and stay informed via official IMD updates.
According to the IMD’s All-India Weather Bulletin issued July 22, the region is under the influence of a monsoon trough that is expected to remain active for several more days. The current system over Rajasthan and parts of Pakistan is drawing moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, fueling prolonged and widespread rainfall across northern India.
IGI Airport Issues Travel Advisory as Rain Disrupts Operations
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), one of India’s busiest aviation hubs, has issued a public travel advisory warning passengers to monitor flight schedules closely. While airport operations remain largely unaffected as of Tuesday, airlines have been put on alert, and passengers are being urged to check real-time flight status before heading to the terminal.
SpiceJet, among the key domestic carriers, has specifically cautioned flyers about potential delays and has recommended checking flight information via their website and mobile app. Other carriers, including IndiGo and Vistara, are also on weather watch and adjusting operations accordingly.
Airport officials said that while no significant cancellations have occurred, sudden changes in weather—including thunderstorm activity and reduced visibility—may necessitate last-minute adjustments to flight schedules.
Monsoon Brings Relief But Risks Remain
While the rains have brought down daytime heat and boosted water reservoirs, they have also caused urban drainage systems to overflow in low-lying areas. Social media was flooded with images of waterlogged roads in parts of South Delhi, East Delhi, and stretches of the Delhi-Gurugram expressway.
Local emergency services have been placed on standby to manage any flooding or tree fall incidents. Delhi Jal Board and Public Works Department (PWD) teams have intensified operations to clear clogged drains and respond to waterlogging complaints.
According to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), precautionary measures have been taken to ensure rapid deployment of relief teams in case of emergencies, particularly in flood-prone zones such as Okhla, Najafgarh, and Yamuna floodplains.
Commuters Advised to Exercise Caution
Traffic police have also issued alerts for major intersections prone to congestion during rains, including ITO, Dhaula Kuan, and the Ring Road corridor. Metro Rail services are running normally, but minor delays are being reported during heavy showers.
Commuters are advised to use public transport where possible and allow extra time for travel. Google Maps and real-time Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) updates are recommended for route planning.
Looking Ahead: More Rain Expected Till July 27
As per the IMD’s seven-day extended forecast, Delhi and the National Capital Region will continue to experience overcast skies, periodic thundercloud development, and localized downpours until at least Saturday. Some improvement is expected early next week, but weather officials remain cautious due to ongoing monsoon activity across northern India.
Daily rainfall accumulation is expected to remain in the moderate range, but heavy spells may occur, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings. The yellow alert may be upgraded if the intensity of rainfall increases or shifts to red zones.
Travel Safety Tips for Delhi During Monsoon Weather:
- Monitor updates from the IMD and Delhi Airport (IGI Airport) for weather and flight alerts.
- Check with airlines directly before heading to the airport.
- Avoid low-lying roads and underpasses prone to flooding.
- Keep emergency supplies, umbrellas, and waterproof footwear handy.
- Follow traffic and public transportation updates for real-time route planning.
As the monsoon continues to drench Delhi, residents and travelers are advised to enjoy the much-needed cool weather with caution. While the rains offer relief from the heat, safety and preparedness are paramount amid weather-related uncertainties.
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