The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in various regions across the country, including Delhi-NCR, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, northeastern states, and others. In a series of updates shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the IMD stated that light to moderate rainfall, along with thunderstorms and lightning, is expected in several states within the next three hours.
Delhi-NCR experienced a relief from the scorching heat as pleasant weather greeted the region on Saturday morning, following overnight dust storms and rain. The minimum temperature in Delhi settled at 24.9 degrees Celsius, slightly below the season’s average, according to the weather agency. The overnight showers brought much-needed respite from the sweltering conditions prevailing in the national capital and its surrounding areas.
However, the inclement weather also resulted in disruptions, with Delhi Police receiving numerous distress calls related to tree uprooting, building damage, and power outages. Flight operations at the Delhi airport were affected, with nine flights diverted late in the evening due to adverse weather conditions. Traffic congestion ensued in Delhi and neighboring areas as gusty winds toppled trees onto roads.
In Himachal Pradesh, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Shimla issued a yellow alert for rain and hailstorms in five districts, namely Kangra, Hamirpur, Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu, for the next three days from May 11 to 13. Additionally, temperatures are expected to dip below normal levels across the state. The adverse weather conditions also led to the closure of the Badrinath-Rishikesh highway near Sirobagadh, affecting travel to pilgrimage sites such as Badrinath and Kedarnath.
As the IMD’s predictions unfold, residents and authorities in the affected regions remain vigilant, bracing for potential disruptions while hoping for much-needed relief from the sweltering heat through the welcome showers and thunderstorms.
