IMD Issues Red Alert as Storms Disrupt Delhi, Delay Over 100 Flights
On Friday morning, the national capital and its surrounding areas were hit by intense rainfall and strong winds, causing widespread waterlogging and disrupting normal life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Delhi, forecasting severe thunderstorms with squally winds reaching speeds of 70–80 km/h. Areas such as Lajpat Nagar, RK Puram, and Dwarka were among the worst affected due to water accumulation.
At Delhi Airport, over 100 flights were delayed as inclement weather disrupted operations. The airport issued an advisory urging passengers to check flight status with airlines. A rumor about a collapsed metal structure at Terminal-3 circulated, but airport authorities clarified that no such incident occurred. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo also released statements warning of possible delays due to shifting weather conditions.
The storm caused trees to fall and power lines to be damaged, posing risks to vulnerable structures such as kutcha houses and open spaces. The IMD advised residents to remain indoors, avoid taking shelter under trees, unplug electronic devices, and stay away from water bodies and electrical installations. The weather forecast predicts continued heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds over the next three days, with a yellow alert currently in place.
