Delhi's Sudden Downpour Stuns IMD, Forces Red Alert Amid May Weather Chaos

New Delhi . May 3, 2025 : A rare and intense pre-monsoon rainstorm took Delhi by surprise on Friday, outpacing the predictions of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and prompting the issuance of an emergency Red Alert. The IMD, which had forecast moderate showers, was compelled to revise its alert early Friday morning following unexpectedly torrential rainfall and destructive winds.

Delhi’s Wettest May Day in Years

The national capital witnessed its second-highest single-day rainfall in the month of May this century. Between 5:00 AM and 8:30 AM alone, Safdarjung recorded 77 mm of rainfall. This is the highest May rainfall since 119.3 mm was recorded on May 20, 2021, during Cyclone Tauktae.

Strong winds reaching speeds of 80 km/h accompanied the rain, toppling trees and damaging property across the city. At least four deaths were reported due to weather-related accidents. The intensity and timing of the downpour caught both the public and emergency agencies off guard.

IMD Reacts with Red Alert, Explains Forecast Challenges

The IMD issued a Red Alert at 5:00 AM, quickly followed by a press briefing. Officials explained that the unpredictability of pre-monsoon systems often makes precise rainfall forecasting difficult.

Dr. M. Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, stated, “Pre-monsoon conditions are influenced by complex interactions of heat, humidity, and western disturbances. Both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal contributed to high moisture levels, and a western disturbance intensified the system.”

The department has now issued a Yellow Alert for Saturday, with expectations of light showers and wind speeds between 40-50 km/h. Intermittent rain is also likely on Sunday.

Nature vs. Technology: Forecasting Still a Challenge

Friday’s rain not only soaked the city but also highlighted the limitations of even the most advanced meteorological models. As bright sunshine returned by afternoon, the maximum temperature stayed unusually low for this time of year.

The sudden storm is a reminder that despite technological advancements, nature remains unpredictable. IMD officials emphasize the need for public vigilance during this volatile weather season, especially in northern and northwestern India where similar activity is expected in the coming days.