Delhi under red alert as IMD warns of thunderstorms, lightning and winds gusting up to 80 kmph

Delhi is bracing for severe weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Friday night. The alert warns of moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and squally winds reaching speeds of 60-70 kmph, with gusts potentially hitting 80 kmph across the city. Light to moderate rainfall is also expected in most areas. The red alert signifies a need for immediate action and adherence to safety advisories from authorities. Residents are urged to remain indoors, avoid seeking shelter under trees, and stay clear of electric poles and flooded areas. This warning follows earlier reports of gusty winds and a nowcast warning indicating the likelihood of dust storms, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall with winds up to 100 kmph across the Delhi-NCR region. The severe weather is also forecast to affect parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, including cities like Panipat, Meerut, and Alwar. Experts attribute the ongoing weather phenomena to a western disturbance affecting the northern hills, with rain also anticipated over Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi on Saturday. The city experienced a significant drop in temperature on Friday, with the maximum temperature at Safdarjung settling at 34.6 degrees Celsius, 5.3 degrees below normal. A yellow alert for thunderstorms and rain has been issued for Saturday, with forecasts predicting a maximum temperature around 37 degrees Celsius and a minimum of about 23 degrees Celsius.

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A red alert signifies the need to take action and follow safety advisories issued by authorities.