Delhi Weather Alert: 6 Shocking Facts Behind the Storm Chaos and Poor Air Quality

Delhi’s Sunday began with a mild 24.2°C morning, offering residents brief respite from summer heat, before IMD’s thunderstorm warnings hinted at afternoon turbulence. Humidity lingered at 75%, but skies are set to darken with rain, peaking temperatures at 35°C. This follows Friday’s record-breaking 77 mm downpour in six hours—the heaviest May rainfall in decades—highlighting the city’s erratic pre-monsoon patterns.

Meanwhile, air quality plummeted to a ‘poor’ AQI of 212, posing health risks despite recent rains, as pollutants from vehicles and construction resurface. While storms temporarily clear the air, experts stress that sustained fixes—like emission controls and green infrastructure—are critical for long-term relief. Delhi’s climate extremes now mirror its urban challenges: balancing growth with resilience amid rising weather unpredictability and persistent pollution. 

Delhi Weather Alert: 6 Shocking Facts Behind the Storm Chaos and Poor Air Quality

Delhi residents enjoyed a refreshing start to Sunday, with mild temperatures and calm skies, only to brace for a dramatic shift as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued thunderstorm and rain alerts later in the day. The city’s weather narrative, however, isn’t just about rain—it’s a tale of climatic contrasts, record-breaking rainfall, and lingering air quality challenges.  

Morning Serenity Meets Afternoon Turbulence 

At 24.2°C, Sunday’s minimum temperature dipped slightly below the seasonal average, offering a respite from the usual May heat. Humidity levels hovered at 75% in the early hours, adding a mild stickiness to the air. By afternoon, the IMD warned of thunderstorms and rain, with temperatures expected to peak at 35°C—a reminder of summer’s looming intensity.  

Historic Rainfall Echoes in May’s Unpredictability 

The forecast follows Friday’s unprecedented downpour, where Delhi recorded 77 mm of rainfall in just six hours—the second-highest 24-hour May rainfall since 1901. Such intense pre-monsoon showers are rare for the capital, underscoring shifting weather patterns. While the rain brought temporary relief from pollution, it also disrupted daily life, flooding streets and testing the city’s drainage infrastructure.  

Air Quality Slips to ‘Poor’ Amid Weather Flux 

Despite the rain’s cleansing effect, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) slid to 212 (‘poor’) by Sunday morning, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The ‘poor’ AQI signals health risks for sensitive groups, aggravating respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Experts note that while rain temporarily scrubs pollutants, factors like vehicular emissions, construction dust, and stagnant winds often negate these gains.  

Why This Matters 

• Health at Stake: Poor AQI levels compound risks during seasonal transitions, particularly for children, seniors, and those with pre-existing conditions.  

• Climate Paradox: Heavy May rainfall challenges traditional weather expectations, hinting at broader climatic shifts that could impact agriculture and urban planning.  

• Emergency Preparedness: Frequent thunderstorms demand robust civic responses to prevent waterlogging and traffic chaos. 

Looking Ahead 

The IMD’s alerts serve as a critical tool for Delhiites navigating the city’s erratic weather. While rain might offer fleeting pollution relief, sustained air quality improvements require systemic changes—reducing emissions, curbing waste burning, and expanding green cover.  

For now, residents remain caught between enjoying the cool mornings and bracing for the next storm—a microcosm of Delhi’s struggle to balance urban growth with environmental resilience.