Delhi battered by thunderstorms, rain and gusty winds, brings respite amid scorching heat

A short-term IMD weather alert for Delhi forecast light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms between 8:10 pm and 11:10 pm. The weather system produced intense pockets with wind speeds of 60–80 kmph and gusts up to 90 kmph, and the possibility of hail. In some areas, winds were 40–60 kmph. Storms developed across several parts of Delhi, bringing strong winds, rain and lightning, and causing disruptions to evening movement and outdoor activities. The highest wind speed recorded was 98 kmph at Palam, with Safdarjung and Pusa stations recording 72 kmph; other stations reported 30–46 kmph gusts. Rainfall was very light and scattered across the city. The IMD warned of risks such as falling trees, power interruptions and transport disruptions due to high winds and lightning. The weather system eased after a few hours, providing brief relief from the heat.

Last week, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta flagged off 13 mobile heat relief units across all districts to help residents cope with rising summer temperatures. The initiative aims to provide chilled drinking water, ORS packets, first-aid support, caps and towels in high-heat and high-footfall areas over the next three months, with daily operation from 11 am to 6 pm. Each unit carries a 400–500 litre cold water tank and is supported by civil defence volunteers. The government plans to distribute thousands of ORS packets, along with cotton towels and caps, every day.