Normal life thrown out of gear in and around Delhi due to heavy rain

The overnight incessant rain affected normal life in and around the national capital on Saturday, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a rain alert, warning of moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.

It also issued safety guidelines amid deteriorating weather conditions.

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“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. Drive cautiously — roads may be slippery. Secure loose items on balconies and rooftops. Avoid sheltering under trees during lightning. Stay tuned to IMD official weather updates,” the IMD said in a social media post.

Meanwhile, waterlogging was reported from several places in the capital city with roads and by lanes in areas such as Timarpur, Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, and Connaught Place flooded.

This resulted in heavy traffic jams and delays on key roads of the city and caused hardships to a large number of people who were out to celebrate the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

Hundreds of flights to and from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport were also delayed in view of the heavy rain that continued for hours.

IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India and other airlines warned passengers about the weather conditions and urged them to allow extra travel time and check flight statuses before heading to the airport.

“Rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today,” said Air India, in a cautionary message posted on X.

It advised travellers to plan ahead due to anticipated traffic congestion in the city.