Delhi Finally Gets a Breather as Rain, Gusty Winds Break Heatwave Grip

After days of scorching temperatures and relentless heat, Delhi-NCR woke up to a welcome change on Thursday as cloudy skies, cool winds and light showers brought much-needed relief to residents exhausted by the early summer blaze.

The change in weather, driven by an active western disturbance over north Pakistan and associated weather systems over north India, is expected to keep temperatures in check for the next few days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

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For a city that had been reeling under temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius in several areas earlier this week, Thursday felt markedly different. Grey skies replaced the harsh summer sun, intermittent showers swept through parts of the capital, and temperatures dipped significantly across Delhi-NCR.

The IMD has forecast a further drop in daytime temperatures, with the mercury expected to fall by as much as 8-10 degrees Celsius by May 30. Night temperatures, too, are likely to become more comfortable over the coming days.

Safdarjung, Delhi’s official weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.1 degrees Celsius on Thursday—more than three degrees lower than the previous day. Several parts of NCR remained even cooler, with Noida and Mayur Vihar recording daytime temperatures of around 36 degrees Celsius.

While the rain has brought relief, the weather department has also cautioned residents about potentially intense thunderstorm activity. Strong winds reaching 60-70 kmph, with gusts touching 80 kmph, are likely across parts of Delhi on Thursday evening and night. Isolated hailstorms and lightning strikes cannot be ruled out.

The unsettled weather is expected to continue through Friday, with forecasts indicating multiple spells of light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and squally winds. Similar conditions are likely to persist on May 30 and 31 before gradually easing from the beginning of June.

Across NCR, the impact of the weather shift was visible. Gurgaon recorded a maximum temperature of 38.8 degrees Celsius, while Ghaziabad touched 38.7 degrees Celsius—both significantly below the highs seen earlier this week.

For residents, the showers offered a brief respite from what has been an unusually intense spell of pre-monsoon heat. Parks and markets saw increased footfall in the evening as people stepped out to enjoy the cooler conditions after days of remaining indoors during peak afternoon hours.

However, authorities have advised caution during thunderstorm activity, urging people to avoid taking shelter under trees, stay away from weak structures and exercise care while travelling during periods of strong winds and lightning.

For now, Delhiites can savour a rare gift in the middle of a punishing summer—a few days of clouds, rain and breathable air before the capital braces for the next phase of the season.