Widespread Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain Predicted in 20 States and UTs
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nationwide weather alert warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and lightning over the next seven days across 20 states and union territories. States under threat include Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Kerala, and all Northeastern states including Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Sikkim, and more.
The alert follows 24 hours of intense weather activity, with light to heavy rain and strong winds recorded across West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Tragically, a man working in a field in Puri, Odisha, lost his life after being struck by lightning.
Delhi-NCR Weather Turns Dramatic with Rains and Winds
On Friday evening, residents in Delhi-NCR experienced a sudden weather shift as dark clouds engulfed the sky, followed by strong winds and heavy rainfall, bringing much-needed relief from scorching temperatures.
Key areas that witnessed thunderstorms and downpour included:
Noida & Ghaziabad
Burari, Rohini, Badli
Punjabi Bagh, Shahdara, Vivek Vihar
Patel Nagar, ITO, Rajiv Chowk
The rain slowed down traffic but helped cool down the capital, where the temperature had peaked at 41°C earlier in the day. By late Friday night, the maximum temperature had dropped to 33°C post-rainfall.
Saturday Forecast: Rain, Dust Storms, and 60 km/h Winds Expected in Delhi
The IMD has forecast another active weather day for Delhi-NCR, with partly cloudy skies during the day, turning overcast by evening. Residents should brace for:
Light to moderate rain or drizzle
Dust storms
Thunderstorms with gusty winds up to 60 km/h
Temperature Outlook:
Maximum: 37–39°C
Minimum: 25–27°C
Authorities have advised people to stay indoors during severe wind gusts and lightning, and secure loose objects on balconies and rooftops.
Airport Issues Advisory Amid Bad Weather
In light of the unsettled weather, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, has issued an official advisory for passengers:
Check flight status before leaving home
Expect delays due to air traffic management
Weather-related precautions are in effect
Airline passengers are advised to arrive early and stay updated through their airline’s communication channels or airport helplines.
Eastern and Northeastern India on High Alert
Alongside Delhi-NCR, eastern and northeastern parts of India remain under continuous weather surveillance:
Strong winds and lightning have been reported across Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Sikkim
All Northeastern states are likely to experience heavy downpours, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas
Odisha, already reeling from lightning fatalities, may continue to see thunderstorm activity
Precautions and Public Safety Tips During Thunderstorms
The IMD and disaster management authorities urge residents across affected regions to follow basic safety protocols:
Avoid open fields, tall trees, and water bodies during thunderstorms
Disconnect electrical appliances during lightning
Keep emergency numbers handy
Stay updated via official weather bulletins
Impact on Daily Life: What to Expect
The ongoing weather instability is expected to impact:
Traffic movement in metro cities due to waterlogging and low visibility
Train and flight schedules
Outdoor plans and events
Agricultural activity, particularly in rural Odisha and Bihar, where lightning risks remain high
Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
With seven days of volatile weather ahead, citizens are advised to stay weather-aware, especially in Delhi-NCR, Odisha, Northeast India, and eastern states. The sudden cool spell brings temporary relief, but the combination of rain, wind, and lightning requires caution.
Stay connected with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for regular updates and keep an eye on local advisories.
