Light rain, cloudy skies and cool breezes brought much-needed relief to residents of Delhi-NCR on Wednesday, as the southwest monsoon continued its advance towards the national capital after days of intense heat and humidity.
Light showers were reported from several parts of Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad during the early hours, while overcast skies and gentle winds kept temperatures in check, providing respite to commuters and office-goers.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph across Delhi from July 1 to July 6. Cloudy skies are expected to prevail throughout the week, with intermittent showers likely across the city and adjoining areas over the next four to five days.
Although the southwest monsoon has not officially reached Delhi, it has advanced into parts of Uttar Pradesh and is steadily moving towards the national capital, as well as Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The IMD said weather conditions have become increasingly favourable for its arrival, while pre-monsoon showers have already begun influencing the region.
The first spell of rain, accompanied by strong winds on Tuesday night, brought noticeable relief from the prevailing heat, with cooler conditions continuing into Wednesday morning and raising expectations of an early monsoon onset in the city.
A day earlier, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 31.2 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 40.5 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, the city’s base weather station. The Ridge station recorded the highest maximum temperature at 41.5 degrees Celsius, while Ayanagar registered 40.1 degrees Celsius.
According to the IMD, maximum temperatures across the region fell by 1-2 degrees Celsius during the past 24 hours, while minimum temperatures rose by a similar margin. Westerly to northwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 15-20 kmph also contributed to the improved weather conditions.
(With IANS inputs)
