Heavy rainfall in Delhi-NCR disrupted routine life and caused diversion of up to 10 flights. The India Meteorological Department issued a 'red alert' for the national capital after the weather turned inclement with adverse conditions likely to prevail for the next 24 hours.
The relentless rain resulted in waterlogging at several parts of Delhi-NCR, bringing traffic to a standstill at many places.
The IMD said that clouds have congregated over Delhi from all directions, and issued an advisory asking people to remain indoors unless necessary.
The weather office said in a post on X Wednesday evening, "Clouds have converged over Delhi from all 4 sectors. Widespread Light/Moderate Rainfall with isolated Intense to very intense Spell (3-5cm/hr) likely over Delhi during next 2 hours.".
The IMD has stated that the rainy conditions will prevail in the capital till August 5.
As far as rainfall recordings go, Mayur Vihar in East Delhi recorded 119 mm from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday; similarly, the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting in Noida recorded 118 mm.
Many carriers have issued advisories on flight diversions and asked passengers to reach the airport early and monitor repeatedly the status of flights.
IndiGo wrote on X, "The rain gods have decided to shower #Delhi with their blessings tonight. As a result, we're expecting heavy rainfall throughout the night. Check your flight status.".
Responding to the situation, Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena directed all concerned officials to remain alert and take necessary measures in respect of waterlogging, particularly in prone areas and areas having coaching centres, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Imran Hussain said.
The LG said on X, “Have cautioned all officers to remain alert in light of the ongoing heavy downpour in Delhi. Apart from ensuring minimum inconvenience to people in general, they are advised to specifically address issues at sites prone to waterlogging, including coaching centres."
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