Stay alert, Delhi! The national capital is bracing for some challenging weather conditions, and if you have travel plans, you will want to pay close attention. The Delhi Airport authorities have officially issued an advisory to all passengers, anticipating some turbulent times ahead due to the inclement weather forecast. It seems like the skies are about to get a bit dramatic over Delhi, directly affecting your travel.
The Indian Meteorological Department, or IMD, has painted a clear picture: expect some rough weather. This isn’t just a light shower we are talking about. Flight operations at Delhi Airport are currently running normally, which is good news for now, but that could change quickly. The airport has been proactive, taking to X, formerly Twitter, to inform everyone. They are urging travelers to get in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight information. Your flight could be affected, so checking ahead is crucial.
There is no time to waste if you’re flying out of Delhi. This advisory is for you. The IMD is not holding back, issuing an orange alert across most of Delhi’s zones. This includes Central, East, South, and New Delhi. An orange alert means there is a significant likelihood of moderate to heavy rainfall, and it’s expected to hit various parts of the city within the next two to three hours. This means the situation could escalate very rapidly.
The IMD has also dished out some practical advice for residents. They are suggesting everyone stays indoors if possible. Don’t seek shelter under trees or any structures that look weak. Your safety is paramount. They also advise checking road and traffic conditions before stepping out, as visibility and commute times could be severely impacted. And yes, a pretty obvious but often forgotten tip: carry an umbrella or a raincoat. You will thank yourself later for being prepared.
Today, many parts of Delhi have already experienced rainfall. While it brought a welcome respite from the usual humid weather, it is also a prelude to what is potentially more intense weather to come. Earlier in the week, Delhi was hit with heavy rainfall, which lashed several regions. These past events serve as a strong reminder of how quickly the weather can turn.
Looking at the broader forecast, the IMD had already predicted significant rainfall to continue over Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and East Rajasthan for the next seven days. Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Haryana are under the same forecast from August 29 to September 2. West Rajasthan will see it on August 30-31, and West Uttar Pradesh from August 31-September 2. Also, East Uttar Pradesh on September 1-2, with isolated very heavy rainfall likely over Uttarakhand on August 28-29, September 1-2, and East Rajasthan on August 31. This is a widespread weather event.
Light to moderate rainfall is expected across most places in Northwest India, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. This is likely over Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh on August 28; West Rajasthan on August 28-29; and Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad, and Uttarakhand over the next seven days. This means a vast region is facing similar weather challenges, all due to the shifting weather patterns.
Adding to this, the IMD has also forecast active monsoon activity over Punjab and Haryana for the next three to four days. Several districts in these states are already struggling with excess showers, and more heavy rainfall is on the way. The Delhi airport advisory is part of a larger, regional weather phenomenon. So, keep an eye on the weather and stay safe out there if your plans involve traveling through Delhi. The Delhi Airport is keeping a close watch, and so should you. Don’t get caught off guard! Always be ready for a change in the weather.
If you have a flight booking, double check it. Be proactive. The Delhi Airport has done its part by issuing the advisory. Now it’s up to you to act on it. Don’t let the weather ruin your plans. Stay informed and reach out to your airline for precise, up to the minute flight updates. Your journey could depend on it. This is a crucial advisory to heed.