Delhi sees heavy showers and waterlogging; road traffic disrupted, over 100 flights delayed

New Delhi: The national capital experienced heavy rainfall overnight, resulting in waterlogging in several areas early on the morning of Raksha Bandhan. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts more showers throughout the day.

Early Saturday, the IMD issued a red alert for heavy rain accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms in parts of north, west, south, southeast, and Central Delhi. This alert was later downgraded to a yellow alert, urging people to remain cautious.

In the 24 hours ending 8.30 am on Saturday, rainfall measurements at Delhi’s main weather stations were as follows: Safdarjung recorded 78.7 mm, Pragati Maidan 100 mm, Lodhi Road 80 mm, Pusa 69 mm, and Palam 31.8 mm, according to the weather department’s data.

Areas affected and temperature

The downpour began around 11 pm on Friday, affecting multiple parts of Delhi-NCR, including Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, Shastri Bhawan, RK Puram, Moti Bagh, and Kidwai Nagar.

Saturday morning’s temperature was recorded at 23.8 degrees Celsius, 3.2 degrees below the average. The maximum temperature is expected to reach approximately 32 degrees Celsius.

Disruption to air and road travel

The heavy rain caused waterlogging and significant disruptions to both air and road travel. Over 100 flights were delayed, with inbound and outbound schedules impacted, and some flights cancelled.

Airline advisories recommended passengers verify flight schedules before travelling and plan for additional travel time. Travellers were also advised to consider alternative routes due to possible traffic congestion or road blockages.

Airport authorities stated that operations were ongoing, with ground teams collaborating with relevant agencies to minimise inconvenience for passengers.

Videos of the heavy rainfall from various parts of the city have been shared by news agencies ANI and PTI.