Severe Thunderstorm Batters Delhi-NCR as IMD Issues Red Alert for 100 kmph Wind Gusts

Delhi-NCR was placed under a red alert on Friday night after a severe thunderstorm system swept across the region, bringing intense rainfall, strong winds, lightning and dust storms. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned residents to remain cautious as adverse weather conditions were expected to continue across the national capital and surrounding areas, with wind speeds reaching potentially dangerous levels.

According to the IMD, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall and lightning activity were likely across Delhi-NCR, as well as adjoining districts of Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh and eastern Rajasthan. The weather agency forecast sustained winds of 60 to 80 kilometres per hour, with gusts potentially touching 100 kilometres per hour in some locations. The warning was issued shortly after 11 pm as the storm system intensified across North India.

Weather monitoring stations across Delhi recorded significant wind speeds during the event. Palam registered the strongest gusts at 76 kmph around midnight, while Narayana and Pragati Maidan recorded winds of 52 kmph. Safdarjung reported gusts of 44 kmph, followed by Jafarpur at 43 kmph and Janakpuri at 31 kmph. The strong winds were accompanied by widespread rainfall and reduced visibility due to blowing dust in several areas.

Also Read: IMD Yellow Alert: Thunderstorms, Gusty Winds And Hailstorms Headed For Delhi-NCR

Meteorologists attributed the recent spells of severe weather to strong convective activity developing over Northwest India. According to IMD scientists, abundant atmospheric moisture, intense daytime heating and the interaction of multiple weather systems have combined to create favourable conditions for powerful thunderstorms. These factors have contributed to repeated episodes of rain, lightning and high-velocity winds across the region in recent days.

The latest storm follows a period of unusually intense weather activity in the capital. Earlier this week, Delhi recorded wind speeds of up to 120 kmph, the highest measured in the city in more than two decades. The recurring extreme weather events have raised concerns about infrastructure resilience, traffic disruptions and public safety during the ongoing pre-monsoon season.

Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees and secure loose objects that could become airborne in strong winds. The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather situation and has urged citizens to follow official advisories as further thunderstorms and rainfall remain possible across Delhi-NCR and neighbouring regions.

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