A thunderstorm alert was on Thursday issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for the capital and surrounding regions, as the southwest monsoon continued to advance steadily northward. The department, in its daily bulletin, warned of dust storms, lightning strikes, and moderate to heavy rain likely to impact Delhi-NCR, raising concerns of waterlogging, traffic snarls, and possible power disruptions in the coming days.
The notice follows a series of pre-monsoon showers that lashed parts of southern and eastern India earlier this week, indicating a strong and early monsoon. Authorities in the National Capital Territory have accordingly issued advisories to residents, urging caution and preparedness.
The IMD further noted the presence of a low-pressure system over the eastern Bay of Bengal, which is aiding in the rapid advance of the monsoon toward central and northern India. While the official onset of the monsoon over Delhi is generally observed around June 27, experts now suggest a probable arrival one to two weeks ahead of schedule.
Municipalities on High Alert
In anticipation of adverse weather, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), along with the Municipal Corporations, has instructed all departments to remain vigilant. Drainage systems are being cleaned and inspected, while emergency control rooms have been activated to respond to any urban flooding that may arise from heavy downpours.
“Citizens are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or near tall structures,” said a senior official of the IMD, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The warning extends to satellite towns such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad, all of which are expected to experience similar atmospheric disturbances.
Agricultural Implications
The early arrival of rains is being viewed with optimism by the farming community across Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, where preparations for Kharif sowing are underway. The Ministry of Agriculture, however, has cautioned against premature planting, citing the need for sustained rainfall patterns.
Experts have also highlighted the influence of La Niña conditions, expected to prevail through the monsoon season. According to meteorologists, this could result in well-distributed rainfall across vast swathes of the country—a favourable development for the agrarian economy.
Aviation and Public Transport
Meanwhile, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has alerted airlines to prepare for possible delays and diversions due to weather-related disruptions. Commuters in the city are advised to plan their travel accordingly and stay updated via official weather bulletins.
Transport services, including the Delhi Metro, are expected to operate normally, though contingency measures have been placed on standby should visibility reduce or water accumulate on major roadways.
Outlook
The IMD’s five-day forecast predicts continued rain-bearing winds, with occasional thunderstorms and overcast skies prevailing. Temperatures are likely to dip slightly, offering respite from the recent spate of dry heat conditions.
As Delhi prepares for the full onset of the southwest monsoon, residents are reminded to remain cautious and adhere to official advisories to ensure safety amid changing weather patterns.
