Heavy rainfall swept through parts of Delhi on Sunday afternoon, August 17, 2025, transforming the bustling capital into a waterlogged maze. Areas including Dhaula Kuan, Naraina, Patel Nagar, Vijay Chowk, Jangpura, Rohini, Firozshah Road, and Parliament Street were hit by significant showers, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The deluge brought both relief from the summer heat and challenges for residents navigating flooded streets and traffic snarls.
The IMD reported that Delhi recorded 1 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 a.m., with more intense showers following throughout the day. Earlier forecasts had predicted a generally cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers, and the maximum temperature was expected to hover around 33 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature settled at 25.6 degrees Celsius, slightly below the seasonal average by 0.9 degrees.
High humidity levels, recorded at 90 percent at 8:30 a.m., added to the discomfort, making the air feel heavier despite the cooling rains. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) noted that Delhi’s air quality remained in the "satisfactory" category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 91 at 4 p.m. According to CPCB standards, an AQI between 51 and 100 is deemed "satisfactory," indicating acceptable air quality with minimal health risks.
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The sudden downpour caught many residents off guard, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas and disrupting public transport and daily routines. Commuters in areas like Rohini and Patel Nagar reported delays due to flooded roads, while shopkeepers scrambled to protect their wares from the rising waters. Despite the chaos, some Delhiites welcomed the rains as a respite from the recent heat, with roadside vendors and children spotted enjoying the unexpected showers.
The IMD has advised residents to stay prepared for more spells of rain in the coming days, as monsoon activity remains active over northern India. Authorities are also monitoring drainage systems to mitigate flooding in vulnerable areas, a recurring challenge during Delhi’s monsoon season. As the city braces for more wet weather, residents are urged to stay updated with weather alerts and take precautions while traveling.
This bout of heavy rain underscores the unpredictable nature of Delhi’s monsoon, blending moments of relief with logistical challenges for the capital’s millions of residents. The city’s infrastructure continues to face tests with each heavy downpour, prompting calls for improved urban planning to tackle recurring waterlogging issues.
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