Rain lashes Delhi-NCR: City under orange alert, 441 flights hit

At around 3 pm, the IMD issued a fresh update warning that a “northwest-southeast oriented northeastward moving cloud cluster/squall line” was likely to impact Delhi. This cloud cluster was expected to bring light rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds at 50-60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph.

By 3.45 pm, areas like Rohtak and Jind reported wind speeds of 60-65 kmph under the influence of this weather system. Very light rainfall had already started in parts of Northwest Delhi, as per the IMD.

Thereafter, the IMD issued another follow-up alert, stating: “In continuation with previous weather alert 31/05/2025: 15:00 IST; Dust storm followed by Thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and lightning (50-60 Km/h gusty winds) is very likely to occur at North Delhi, North-East Delhi, North-West Delhi, West Delhi, Central Delhi, East Delhi, NCR (Loni Dehat, Hindon AF Station) during next 2 hours.”

Delhi’s 186.4 mm of rain this May has already broken records. The previous high was 165 mm in 2008. On May 25, the city received its highest 24-hour rainfall this month – 81.44 mm – recorded at Safdarjung.

This month has seen a mix of extreme weather — from heat and humidity to hailstorms and heavy rains. Though no heatwave days were logged (unlike last May when there were six), the “feels like” temperature crossed 50 degree Celsius on several days.

The average minimum temperature was 25.3 degree Celsius, and the maximum average was 37.5 degree Celsius.

For Sunday, the IMD has predicted overcast skies with light rain, but no weather alert has been issued.

Owing to partly cloudy sky conditions, temperatures over the next six days are expected to hover between 25 degree Celsius and 39 degree Celsius.

Flights affected

Meanwhile, 441 flights departing from Delhi airport were delayed by an average delay time of 25 minutes on Saturday as rains and gusty winds hit parts of Delhi, according to Flightradar24, as of 11 pm.

One Air India flight was diverted to Jaipur at 4:55 pm, according to an airport source.

“Kindly note, as per the latest IMD forecast, Delhi may experience adverse weather from 15:45 IST. However, all flight operations at Delhi Airport are currently running smoothly…Passengers are advised to consider alternative modes of transport, including the Delhi Metro, to reach the airport and avoid potential delays,” Delhi airport said in a post on X.

Airlines also warned of potential disruptions due to weather conditions. “Rain and thunderstorms may impact flights to/from Delhi this evening. Please check your flight status and allow extra travel time,” Air India posted on X at 5 pm.

“Rain and moderate winds are forecast in Delhi, which could affect flight operations. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your commute,” Indigo advised passengers.