Delhi has been grappling with heavy rainfall since last evening, leading to widespread traffic jams and waterlogging across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Thursday, which has now been extended to today, urging residents to prepare for potential disruptions in transport, power outages, and other services. The heavy rains have caused significant challenges for commuters, with major roads in the national capital experiencing waterlogging.
Rainfall and Weather Conditions
According to the IMD, Delhi recorded varying levels of rainfall across different areas. The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours was measured at Ridge station, with 69.44 mm. Other notable locations include Delhi University’s 56.5 mm, Safdarjung’s 29.6 mm, Lodhi Road’s 28.2 mm, Aya Nagar’s 19.5 mm, and Palam’s 18 mm. The downpour also led to a sharp drop in temperatures, with the minimum recorded at 21.4 degrees Celsius four degrees below the seasonal average.
What is an Orange Alert?
The IMD issues weather alerts to warn residents of potentially hazardous conditions. An orange alert, specifically, is for heavy to very heavy rainfall and serves as a warning for authorities and the public to stay prepared for severe weather. It can lead to significant disruptions in daily life, including transport, power services, and even rail or air travel. The IMD color-codes its warnings, starting from yellow (for moderate rainfall) to red (for extremely heavy rain requiring immediate action).
Cause of the Rainfall
The IMD attributed the heavy rainfall to a depression over southwest Uttar Pradesh, which is currently impacting Delhi and surrounding regions in the National Capital Region (NCR). The weather system is expected to gradually weaken by Friday, September 13, as it moves north-northeastward. While Delhi is coping with the rain, the IMD has also warned of heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand due to the same depression.
Traffic Disruptions Across Delhi
The heavy rain caused traffic disruptions in several key areas of the city. The Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories on social media, warning people to avoid waterlogged areas and seek alternative routes.
Major roads affected include:
•NH-48 from Dhaula Kuan towards Mahipalpur due to waterlogging near GGR PDR.
•Lala Lajpat Rai Marg from Kalkaji towards Defence Colony.
•Main Kanjhawla Road from Budh Vihar towards Puth Khurd.
•Outer Ring Road and Rohtak Road near Nangloi towards Tikri Border.
•MB Road from Khanpur T-Point towards Mehrauli.
•Guru Teg Bahadur Road near Khalsa College.
•GTK Road from Mukarba Chowk towards Azadpur Chowk.
Waterlogging near key landmarks like GTK Depot, Jahangirpuri Metro Station, and Peeragarhi led to further delays. The overflow of sewer water near Nagin Lake Apartments also contributed to the traffic jams on the Outer Ring Road.
Weather Forecast for Friday
The IMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall for Friday, with generally cloudy skies throughout the day. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels reaching up to 96%, keeping the possibility of further showers high.
As the situation continues to develop, commuters are advised to stay updated with traffic and weather alerts to plan their journeys accordingly.
Read Now:Vinesh Phogat’s Assets Revealed as She Enters Politics, Prepares for Haryana Elections
