Delhi Thunderstorm Causes Temperature Drop, Flight Disruptions, and Injuries

A sudden thunderstorm hit Delhi on April 25, 2023, leading to a significant drop in temperature, flight diversions, and injuries from a wall collapse amid strong winds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an advisory warning of strong winds and potential damage to crops and structures prior to the storm.

The adverse weather conditions provided respite from the scorching heat but caused disruptions at the Delhi airport, with several flights being diverted or delayed. IndiGo advised passengers to check their flight timings before heading to the airport. The rain also led to traffic jams in different parts of the region.

In South Delhi's Khirki Extension area, a wall collapsed due to the strong gusty winds and rain, injuring eight people, including six minors. Two of the injured sustained major injuries, while the others suffered minor injuries. The sudden rainfall and storm likely contributed to the structural failure. The injured persons are reported to be in stable condition and are undergoing treatment.

The IMD had predicted isolated rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in the region this week. The weather patterns were influenced by a Western Disturbance and a cyclonic circulation. The dust storm caught the city off guard, accompanied by strong surface winds of up to 50kmph and a drizzle, bringing temporary relief from the scorching heat, with the maximum temperature dropping to 36.8°C, one degree below normal.

Why this matters: The thunderstorm in Delhi highlights the impact of sudden weather changes on daily life, infrastructure, and public safety. It underscores the importance of timely weather forecasts and advisories to help citizens and authorities prepare for and mitigate the effects of such events.

According to the IMD, temperatures are expected to rise again starting Wednesday, with the mercury level hovering around 35°C throughout the day. Wind speeds are predicted to be around 6.81 km/h, with gusts up to 8.63 km/h. The weather forecast for today suggests partly cloudy skies with strong winds during the day, with the maximum and minimum temperatures expected to settle around 37 and 23 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Key Takeaways

• Sudden thunderstorm hit Delhi on April 25, 2023, causing flight diversions and injuries.
• IMD had issued advisory for strong winds and potential damage prior to the storm.
• Adverse weather provided respite from heat but disrupted Delhi airport operations.
• Wall collapse in Khirki Extension injured 8 people, including 6 minors.
• Temperatures expected to rise again, with partly cloudy skies and strong winds forecast.