Will It Rain In Delhi Today? IMD Issues Yellow Alert As Thunderstorms, Lightning And Gusty Winds Loom

After days of intense heat and uncomfortable humidity, Delhi residents woke up to cloudy skies and cool gusts of wind on Friday morning. The sudden change in weather left many wondering whether the national capital is finally set to receive rainfall.

The answer, according to weather officials, is yes, there is a possibility of rain later in the day, although it may arrive in short and scattered spells rather than as a prolonged downpour.

Delhi Weather Right Now

As of the morning of June 13, Delhi's temperature was hovering around 33 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels close to 51 per cent. The combination of heat and moisture has pushed the "feels like" temperature to nearly 37 degrees Celsius, making conditions sticky and uncomfortable despite the cloud cover.

While there was no rain during the early hours of the day, the skies remained partly cloudy, and changing weather conditions hinted at possible thunderstorms later.

IMD Issues Yellow Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi-NCR, warning residents about the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds during the afternoon and evening.

According to the forecast, gusty winds could reach speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour, with isolated gusts touching 60 kilometres per hour during intense weather activity.
Meteorological models indicate that the chance of scattered thundershowers is likely to increase after the afternoon, with the highest possibility between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm.

The cloud cover and light rain received overnight on June 12 have also helped bring down temperatures, with the day's maximum expected to stay around 34 degrees Celsius, slightly below the usual mid-June average.

Why Is Delhi Seeing This Sudden Weather Change?

Despite the possibility of rain, weather experts have clarified that this is not the arrival of the southwest monsoon.

The current weather pattern is being driven by a western disturbance, a system that develops over the Mediterranean region and moves eastward towards northwest India. As it travels, it carries moisture and creates favourable conditions for thunderstorms and short spells of rainfall.

The interaction between warm, moist air near the ground and the incoming disturbance creates what meteorologists call convective instability. This process causes air to rise rapidly, leading to the formation of towering thunderclouds that can produce lightning, gusty winds, and brief but intense showers.

Should You Carry an Umbrella?

If you are planning to step out later in the day, especially after 3 pm, carrying an umbrella or rain protection would be a sensible choice.

Even if rainfall remains scattered, the possibility of sudden thunderstorms and strong winds could disrupt traffic and outdoor activities. The IMD's yellow alert does not indicate severe danger but serves as a warning for people to stay updated and be cautious.

By late evening, weather conditions are expected to improve, with skies gradually clearing and temperatures dropping to around 27 degrees Celsius.

Relief From Heat, But Not the Monsoon Yet

While today's weather may offer temporary relief from Delhi's exhausting summer heat, experts caution that the respite could be short-lived. The southwest monsoon has not yet reached the capital and is still advancing through other parts of the country.

Meteorologists have also noted that this year's monsoon season could be weaker than usual. Forecasts suggest rainfall during the June-to-September period may remain below the long-term average.

One of the key reasons behind this is the influence of El Niño, a climate pattern linked to the warming of waters in the central Pacific Ocean. El Niño events often affect rainfall distribution across South Asia and can lead to reduced monsoon activity in India.

What Delhi Residents Can Expect Today

For now, Delhiites can expect a mix of cloudy skies, humid conditions, and the possibility of thunderstorms later in the afternoon and evening. While the rain may not be widespread or long-lasting, even a brief shower could provide welcome relief from the scorching June temperatures.

With the IMD's yellow alert in place, residents are advised to keep an eye on weather updates, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during thunderstorms, and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.