IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi and orange alert for Southern India: residents asked to take caution

New Delhi (India) June 18: A yellow alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department for Delhi-NCR till June 19. The warning calls for thunderstorms with light to heavy rainfall, lightning and thunder squalls, with wind speeds between 50 and 60 kmph, especially at night.

It is expected that Delhi would see a minimum temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 33 degrees Celsius.

Karnataka is also under a "orange" alert from the IMD, which means that there will be heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and winds of 40–50 kmph throughout the state. Light to moderate rainfall is expected in other regions of South India, including coastal Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Yanam, Rayalaseema, and Telangana.

On Wednesday June 18, the IMD issued a red alert for parts of West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha. All three states are expected to see heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and high surface winds. Bihar has also been placed under an orange alert. Assam was placed under a red alert and neighbouring states in Northeast India were placed under an orange alert. These alerts warn of moderate to severe rains and thunderstorms throughout the day today.

Heavy rainfall on June 17 caused major disruptions, including the diversion of at least 12 planes at Delhi airport. There was knee-deep waterlogging in several important parts of the city, including the underpass close to Delhi Cantonment and Zakhira which disrupted traffic flow.

The intense downpour has significantly reduced temperatures and improved the general weather in Delhi and the surrounding areas which provided relief from the unbearable heat.

According to reports, the city's air quality is still classified as "moderate," with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 104. It is advised that locals use reliable media sources and government channels to be informed about the weather.

Significant rainfall was also received by nearby NCR cities like Noida and Ghaziabad. High-speed winds and heavy showers were reported in both places, which quickly lowered the humidity and temperature.

IMD has predicted a moderate thunderstorm with strong lighting in open areas, which might cause traffic jams and possibly delays in train and flight services. The warning also emphasized the dangers to anybody working outdoors and livestock.

Residents have been advised by IMD to stay indoors and refrain from unnecessary travel. In order to prevent damage from lightning, the weather office also recommended that homeowners disconnect electrical equipment during storms.

Additionally, people have been warned not to use cell phones in public places during lightning activity and not to seek cover behind trees or metal objects. Farmers and outdoor workers have been instructed to halt their activity and relocate right once to a safe area.

Aadrika Tayal