New Delhi: A sudden bout of intense rainfall and thunderstorms late Saturday night (May 24) plunged Delhi and adjoining regions into chaos, disrupting flight operations, flooding key roads, and toppling trees and hoardings across the city.
The downpour followed days of searing heat, offering relief from the scorching temperatures but leaving behind a trail of damage and disruption.
Flights Disrupted, Airport Roads Submerged
Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport faced significant delays as severe weather gripped the capital. In an official advisory, Delhi Airport authorities cautioned travellers, stating, “Due to adverse weather conditions last night, some flights have been impacted. Passengers are advised to check their flight status regularly and stay in touch with airline staff for updates.” The airport also assured that ground teams were coordinating with stakeholders to restore normalcy and assist passengers.
Access routes to the airport, including roads around Terminal 1, witnessed knee-deep waterlogging, causing further commuter frustration. Other major points like Moti Bagh and Minto Road were similarly inundated, resulting in traffic snarls and stranded vehicles.
IMD Issues Red Alert Across City
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier sounded a red alert for Delhi and its surrounding areas, forecasting severe thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching up to 60 km/h, and frequent lightning. The storm system, which moved in from the northwest, made landfall with force, uprooting trees, damaging property, and disrupting electricity in several localities.
Heavy rains were also reported in parts of Haryana, including Chandigarh and Jhajjar. The IMD now predicts a slight dip in temperatures, with Sunday’s (May 24) maximum expected at 38°C, down from Saturday’s sweltering 44°C. The minimum temperature remains at 28°C.
