Rain brings relief to Delhi as gusty winds sweep across city

NEW DELHI: Parts of Delhi received light to moderate rainfall on Friday evening, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. Areas including central, south and west Delhi witnessed rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), winds blew at speeds of 30-40 kmph, with lightning reported in several localities such as Burari, Rohini, Model Town, Pitampura, Delhi University, Rajouri Garden, and ITO. The showers also extended to parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

Earlier in the day, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 41°C, over four degrees above normal. The minimum temperature was 25.6°C, also above the seasonal average. Humidity levels ranged between 35% and 57%.

The IMD forecast for Saturday suggests partly cloudy skies during the day, becoming generally cloudy by evening. Very light rain or drizzle is expected, along with dust storms and thunderstorms. Winds may pick up to 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph.

Despite the rainfall, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “poor” category, with an AQI of 219 recorded at 4 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.