IMD Issues Red Alert for Delhi: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms Disrupt City Life

New Delhi, Aug 2025 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued a red alert for Delhi, forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across the national capital. The warning came alongside safety guidelines urging residents to take precautions as adverse weather conditions persisted.

“Today, the skies turn moody – moderate rain, thunderstorms, and lightning are expected, accompanied by gusty winds (30–40 kmph) across parts of the city. This isn’t just a forecast; it’s a gentle reminder to care for one another,” the IMD posted on X. The advisory recommended driving cautiously on slippery roads, securing loose items on balconies and rooftops, and avoiding shelter under trees during lightning strikes.

Overnight and morning showers severely disrupted normal life across Delhi-NCR. Waterlogging was reported at several key locations, including Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, and Connaught Place, leading to heavy traffic congestion and significant delays on arterial roads.

The downpour also hit air travel hard. According to Flightradar data, more than 130 flights to and from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport were delayed on Saturday morning.

Airlines issued passenger advisories in response. IndiGo and SpiceJet urged travellers on X to allow extra time for their journey and check flight statuses before heading to the airport. Air India cautioned that “rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today,” advising passengers to plan ahead due to potential traffic congestion.

While Delhi Airport stated that overall operations remained “normal,” it acknowledged multiple flight delays and assured that teams were working to minimise disruption.

The IMD has predicted further spells of moderate to heavy rain through the weekend, raising the possibility of continued travel delays and local flooding. Authorities have urged residents to remain updated through official weather bulletins and to avoid unnecessary travel during peak downpours.