Heavy rain, thunder and lightning hit Delhi-NCR around midnight on Sunday, with strong winds adding to the sudden change in weather. The spell continued for more than 2 hours and brought a noticeable drop in temperature across the region.
After the heat and humidity of the day, residents experienced cooler conditions early on Monday. The rain also created difficulties around religious sites as people sought shelter from the downpour and gusty weather.
Rain affects Navratri arrangements
The downpour arrived on the first day of Navratri, increasing concern among organisers. At the Kalkaji temple area, devotees were seen rushing to protect themselves from the rain. The sudden weather change made conditions difficult for people gathered near the temple.
Waterlogging was reported around the Jhandewalan temple area. Rainfall also affected the surroundings of Jantar Mantar, where a video showed an otherwise empty demonstration site during the wet conditions.
The weather shift followed strong winds and increasing cloud movement in Delhi and nearby areas on Sunday evening. The stormy conditions then intensified late at night, bringing heavy rain to several parts of the national capital and the wider Delhi-NCR region.
IMD had forecast stormy conditions
The India Meteorological Department had indicated the possibility of heavy rain in Delhi. Its forecast also covered Haryana and Punjab, where thunder, lightning and strong winds were expected.
Wind speeds were forecast to reach 50 to 60 kilometres per hour. The department had also warned that some locations could receive hail. The reported overnight conditions were consistent with the forecast of unsettled weather during the transition away from the monsoon.
The rain was documented in several parts of Delhi, including the Kalkaji temple area and the Jhandewalan temple locality. Footage from the capital also showed wet conditions around Jantar Mantar as the weather system moved through the city.
What the weather change means for residents
The most immediate effect was a fall in temperature after the day's warmth and humidity. People outdoors, including devotees visiting temples, faced rain, strong winds and rapidly changing conditions.
The weather also affected public spaces and religious-event arrangements. Waterlogging near Jhandewalan temple and the rush for cover near Kalkaji temple showed how the overnight storm disrupted activity in areas with large gatherings.
Conclusion
Delhi-NCR saw heavy overnight rain with thunder, lightning and strong winds, bringing cooler conditions and affecting Navratri gatherings. The IMD had already forecast the possibility of heavy rain and stormy weather in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When did the heavy rain occur in Delhi-NCR?
The rain began around midnight on Sunday and continued into Monday morning.
Q. How long did the heavy rain last?
The heavy rain continued for more than 2 hours.
Q. What changes did residents notice?
Temperatures fell after the rain, and people experienced cooler conditions following a hot and humid day.
Q. Which areas were affected by waterlogging?
Waterlogging was reported around the Jhandewalan temple area.
Q. Did the rain affect Navratri gatherings?
Yes. The rain raised concern among organisers, and devotees near the Kalkaji temple area rushed to find shelter.
Q. What had the IMD forecast?
The IMD had forecast heavy rain, thunder, lightning and strong winds in Delhi, Haryana and Punjab.
Q. How strong could the winds become?
The forecast indicated wind speeds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.
Q. Was hail also possible?
The IMD had indicated that some locations could receive hail.
