Rain and 93 kmph Winds Sweep Delhi, Bringing Relief from Heat

Parts of Delhi witnessed light to moderate rainfall and strong winds on Monday, providing temporary relief from the summer heat while highlighting the challenges of urban weather preparedness amid increasing climate variability .

According to weather officials, squally winds reached 93 kmph at Palam during the afternoon, accompanied by pre-evening showers. Palam recorded 9 mm of rainfall , the highest in the city, while Ayanagar received 4.6 mm. Trace rainfall was reported at Safdarjung and Lodhi Road.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said temperatures remained close to normal despite humid conditions. Safdarjung, the city's base weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius , while the Ridge observatory registered the highest temperature at 38.8 degrees Celsius .

Meteorologists attributed the weather activity to a cyclonic circulation over Punjab, Haryana and adjoining areas , supported by moisture-laden southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea. The system triggered rain across parts of northwestern India, including the national capital.

Weather experts said the episode underscores the need for improved urban resilience and preparedness as cities increasingly face sudden weather fluctuations, intense wind events and localized rainfall linked to changing climatic patterns.

Mahesh Palawat of Skymet Weather said the current spell is expected to continue for the next two days, though its intensity is likely to weaken gradually. With ample moisture in the atmosphere, temperatures are not expected to rise significantly during this period.

The IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rain for Tuesday, with temperatures likely to range between 27 degrees Celsius and 38 degrees Celsius .

Meanwhile, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 151 , placing it in the "moderate" category, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.