Delhi-NCR may witness brief thunderstorms and lightning on Thursday before temperatures rise sharply again, with the IMD warning that the mercury could touch 40°C in the coming days.
Delhi: New Delhi and nearby NCR regions may witness brief thunderstorms and lightning on Thursday before temperatures begin rising sharply again, with the India Meteorological Department warning that the mercury could touch 40 degrees Celsius by this weekend.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several parts of Delhi-NCR are expected to witness cloudy skies, thunder and lightning activity later on Thursday, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
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Areas likely to experience thunderstorms include:
- North Delhi
- South Delhi
- West Delhi
- Shahdara
- New Delhi
Neighbouring NCR cities such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad may also receive brief thunderstorm activity.
Weather officials said the changing conditions could bring temporary relief from the recent heatwave-like weather and make conditions pleasant for a short period.
Temperatures expected to rise sharply over next few days
Despite Thursday’s thunderstorm forecast, the IMD has warned that the cooling effect is unlikely to last long.
The weather department said Delhi’s maximum temperature could rise by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next five days as dry summer conditions return across the region.
On Thursday, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 23.8 degrees Celsius, which is 1.3 degrees below the seasonal average.
The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius during the day. However, temperatures may approach 40 degrees Celsius by May 9 and 10.
Officials said recent rain and hailstorms had temporarily reduced temperatures by nearly 5.7 degrees Celsius below normal levels, but the mercury is now expected to climb steadily again.
Heatwave-like conditions likely from May 9
Meteorologists said mainly dry weather with clear skies is expected from May 8 onwards, increasing the chances of heatwave-like conditions across Delhi-NCR.
The IMD has advised:
- Avoiding direct sunlight during afternoon hours
- Drinking plenty of water
- Taking extra precautions for children and elderly people
- Limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours
Weather experts said a fresh western disturbance may affect the western Himalayan region from May 10, though its impact on Delhi may only become noticeable by the middle of next week.
Until then, hot and uncomfortable weather conditions are expected to continue.
Delhi air quality remains in moderate category
Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “moderate” category on Thursday morning.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 128 at 9 am.
Under CPCB standards:
- 0–50 is considered “good”
- 51–100 is “satisfactory”
- 101–200 is “moderate”
- 201–300 is “poor”
- 301–400 is “very poor”
- 401–500 is “severe”
Published: 07 May 2026, 10:35 am IST
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