New Delhi: Heavy rain and strong winds in the early hours of Sunday severely disrupted operations at Delhi Airport, forcing the diversion of 49 flights, including 17 international services, between 11:30 pm and 4:00 am.

“Due to adverse weather conditions in Delhi, 49 flights were diverted between 11:30 pm and 4 am. Normal services restored,” Delhi Airport sources confirmed.

The Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory at 6:50 am, urging travellers to check flight statuses regularly.

In a post on X, the airport stated: “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. Our on-ground teams are diligently working with all stakeholders to ensure a seamless and efficient passenger experience.”

Sharp drop in temperature recorded

The sudden thunderstorm caused a notable drop in temperature across the city. At Lodhi Road, the temperature fell from 31°C to 22°C between 1:15 am and 2:30 am. At Safdarjung Airport, it dropped from 31.0°C to 21.0°C; at Palam Airport, from 29.0°C to 22.0°C; in Pusa, from 31.8°C to 20.5°C; at Pragati Maidan, from 31.4°C to 21.3°C; and at Lodhi Road, from 31.0°C to 22.3°C.

Heavy rainfall measured across the capital

Rainfall data recorded at 08:30 IST on Sunday showed significant downpours across Delhi: Lodhi Road received 69.6 mm, Aya Nagar 37.0 mm, Safdarjung 81.4 mm, Palam 68.5 mm, and Ridge 69.1 mm.

Waterlogging and damage reported in several areas

Severe waterlogging was reported in multiple parts of the capital, including Moti Bagh, Minto Road, and near Terminal 1 of Delhi Airport. Visuals from Minto Road showed a car submerged due to flooding. Nanakpura Underpass and Dhaula Kuan were also badly affected, leading to traffic congestion and slow vehicular movement.

Fallen trees due to the storm led to clearance operations at Akbar Road during the night.

IMD issues red alert and nowcast warning

On Saturday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for Delhi and surrounding regions, warning of severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The warning was issued as part of a Nowcast alert, highlighting the approach of a thunderstorm cell from the west and northwest of the capital.

The IMD forecast predicted gusty winds reaching 40–60 km/h or more, along with frequent lightning and potential dust storms.

Authorities urge precaution

Residents were urged by the IMD to avoid open spaces and not to seek shelter under trees. People were also advised to steer clear of weak walls, unstable structures, and water bodies.

The storm was expected to result in tree uprooting and broken branches, with possible damage to banana and papaya crops. Dry limbs of trees may fall due to the wind, and dust storms could occur in certain areas.

Authorities have called on the public to stay alert and take all necessary precautions.

ANI inputs