Delhi rains: Heavy rain accompanied by a dust storm drenched Delhi-NCR on Wednesday evening, bringing in respite for the residents after an unusually warm start to March. The national capital, along with Noida, had experienced overcast skies throughout the day following a pleasant morning. Although the sudden change in weather disrupted normal conditions, it also resulted in a dip in mercury, marking a welcome shift for residents grappling with rising heat levels.

Western disturbance prompts Yellow Alert from IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the vagaries of the weather to an active western disturbance influencing the region from Wednesday to Friday. The system will likely bring light rainfall, cloudy skies and gusty winds over the next few days in the region. The body has sounded a yellow alert for Delhi-NCR for Thursday and Friday, warning that winds could hit the region at a speed of 40 to 50 kmph. Intermittent spells of light rain and thunderstorms could also strike the region. 

Temperatures set for a fall

After hovering above seasonal averages for more than half of March, the temperatures in the National capital are now expected to dip. On Tuesday, mercury reached up to 31.6 degrees Celsius in Delhi, close to normal levels, while Wednesday’s levels ranged between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. The IMD has forecast that on Thursday, the city could log a maximum temperature between 29 to 31 degrees Celsius, while on Friday, further dip is expected, ranging from 27 to 29 degrees Celsius. According to IMD officials, even after the Western disturbance weakens, the temperatures will likely remain moderate, fluctuating between 30-32 degrees Celsius. 

Weather outlook for March 19 and 20

March 19: The day is expected to remain generally cloudy, with multiple spells of light rain or drizzle. Thunderstorms are likely, accompanied by winds of 30-40 kmph, gusting up to 50 kmph.

March 20: Cloudy conditions will persist, with repeated spells of light rain. Thunderstorms and strong winds, ranging between 30-40 kmph and gusting up to 50 kmph, are expected both in the morning and later in the day.