Delhi Weather Today: Continuous Rain Improves AQI, Deepens Cold; Flights Hit, IMD Issues Orange Alert

The national capital witnessed a sharp change in weather on Friday as continuous rainfall lashed Delhi and adjoining areas, bringing a noticeable drop in air pollution levels but intensifying the winter chill. The rain, driven by the season’s first strong western disturbance, began in the early hours and continued uninterrupted till late morning across several parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), widespread light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds affected Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad and Manesar. Gusty winds touching speeds of 40–60 kmph were recorded in some pockets, further lowering the ‘feels-like’ temperature.

Orange Alert Across Delhi

The IMD placed all districts of Delhi under an orange alert till early afternoon, warning residents of multiple spells of rain, thunderstorms and strong winds. Meteorologists said the weather system is expected to persist for several hours, with intermittent showers likely through the day.

“This is the first intense western disturbance of the season, and it has significantly influenced both temperature and air quality levels in the region,” an IMD official said.

AQI Improves, But Cold Bites Harder

While the rain brought temporary relief from hazardous pollution, it also made the cold more biting. Delhi’s actual temperature hovered around 16°C by late morning, but the ‘feels-like’ temperature dipped closer to 12°C due to strong winds and persistent drizzle. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to 293 (poor) at 8 am, compared to 322 (very poor) recorded a day earlier. The improvement led to the withdrawal of GRAP-III restrictions on Thursday, offering brief respite to residents battling prolonged pollution.

Flight Operations Affected

The adverse weather conditions disrupted flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airport authorities issued an advisory stating that bad weather impacted flights, particularly those operating to and from Srinagar, while some delays were also reported on other domestic routes.

Passengers were advised to check flight status with airlines before heading to the airport, as weather-related delays could continue through the day.

NCR Also Sees Heavy Rain

Parts of Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram experienced steady rainfall throughout the morning, leading to waterlogging in some low-lying areas and slower traffic movement during peak hours. These cities were also placed under an orange alert until at least 2 pm, as per IMD’s nowcast.

What Lies Ahead

IMD forecasts suggest that moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning may continue for a few more hours before gradually easing. Residents have been advised to stay indoors during intense spells, avoid open areas during lightning activity and remain alert for traffic disruptions.