Delhi weather: IMD issues ‘yellow alert’ for today, forecasting rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on Friday, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, thundersqualls, and light to moderate rainfall. Wind speeds are expected to pick up to 30–40 kmph, particularly during the night. Rainfall is also predicted in Gujarat and Maharashtra today.

The anticipated showers are likely to bring down the maximum temperature in Delhi to between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is expected to stay around 27 to 29 degrees Celsius.

For the coming week, Delhi’s weather is forecast to remain mostly cloudy. The IMD has maintained a yellow alert from June 20 to 23, with predictions of thunderstorms, lightning, and light to moderate rainfall. Gusty winds are expected during this period, ranging from 30–40 kmph and occasionally touching 50 kmph during evening or nighttime thunderstorms. Although rainfall intensity may vary, the IMD does not expect any heatwave conditions over the next seven days. Cloudy skies are also likely on June 24 and 25.

In its advisory, the IMD warned of moderate thunderstorms with a possibility of intense lightning in open areas. It highlighted potential disruptions including traffic congestion and delays to flight and train services. The advisory also pointed to risks for livestock and those working outdoors. Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and unplug electrical appliances during storms to prevent lightning-related hazards.

Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality improved on Thursday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping into the ‘satisfactory’ range after remaining in the ‘poor’ category for several days. As per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI stood at 76 at 8 am on June 20, down from 99 recorded the previous day.

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The CPCB classifies AQI levels as follows: 0–50 is ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’.