Intense rainfall combined with powerful winds and lightning struck Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region during the early hours of Sunday morning.
While the precipitation offered welcome relief from oppressive summer temperatures, it triggered widespread chaos through extensive flooding and aviation disruptions. Multiple roadways and underground passages became inundated, resulting in severe traffic congestion.
Over 100 flights experienced disruptions due to severe weather conditions and torrential rain at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airport officials reported that approximately 49 flights required rerouting between 11:30 pm Saturday and 4:00 am Sunday.
According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) records, peak wind velocities reached 82 km/h at Safdarjung (Airport) around 2 am Saturday night, with Pragati Maidan recording 76 km/h. The mildest winds measured 37 km/h at Delhi University in North Delhi.
Current advisories from Delhi Airport indicate ongoing flight disruptions stemming from Saturday night’s weather events. Authorities have requested travelers to monitor their flight status continuously and maintain contact with airlines for current information.
Recent precipitation data shows rainfall totals across Delhi’s various districts through early morning hours: Safdarjung recorded 81 mm, Palam measured 68 mm, Pusa logged 71 mm, and Mayur Vihar registered 48 mm.
Additional city areas experienced rainfall between 5 and 8 centimeters.
Numerous vehicles became stranded due to flooding in the airport-bound underpass. The primary tunnel linking Delhi to the airport suffered extensive inundation from nighttime precipitation, causing dozens of automobiles to become submerged and sustain damage.
A vehicle was discovered completely underwater at Minto Road after the location filled with floodwater during the intense downpour. News agency DD News documented the scene with footage.
The IMD had predicted on Saturday that Delhi and neighboring regions would encounter dust storms followed by thunderstorms and precipitation, accompanied by strong winds reaching 60 to 100 kilometers per hour. Weather conditions developed largely according to these forecasts.