Delhi Braces for Intense Monsoon: Orange Alert Issued as Heavy Rains Lash Capital

Delhi is under an 'Orange Alert' today as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts widespread moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the capital. This follows a significant first widespread monsoon spell that hit the National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday, July 5, bringing a much-needed break from the sweltering heat but also causing localized disruptions like waterlogging and affecting flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport. This year's Southwest Monsoon arrived in Delhi on July 2, a noticeable five days later than its usual onset date of June 27, partly influenced by lingering El Niño conditions that suppressed early rainfall. Despite the late arrival, Sunday saw Delhi recording its hottest July day in two years with temperatures hitting 38.6 degrees Celsius, even as rain fell, highlighting the intense humidity preceding the heavy downpour. Weather experts point to the interaction of a rare summer Western Disturbance with a Low-pressure area and the Monsoon Trough as the drivers behind this sudden intensification, pushing moisture into the region. Residents should prepare for continued wet weather, as the IMD predicts rainfall activity to remain strong, with chances of heavy downpours throughout the week, potentially extending until July 11 or even July 16. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, especially for further traffic disruptions and localized waterlogging. The focus now shifts to how these intense spells will impact the region's overall monsoon season, especially after June saw significantly below-normal rainfall.