The Regional Weather Forecast Centre in Delhi has issued a warning indicating that Delhi-NCR is likely to witness light rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds reaching 30-50 kmph over the next two hours. This weather activity is expected to affect several districts in Haryana, including Fatehabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Sonipat, Jind, and Bhiwani, along with nearby areas. Parts of western Uttar Pradesh such as Baraut, Baghpat, and Khekra, as well as eastern Rajasthan including Bhadra, Pilani, and Khairthal, are also likely to experience similar conditions.
Earlier in the day, several parts of Delhi witnessed rain and hailstorms, bringing temporary relief from the intense heat. Areas in Dwarka reported hailstorms as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds of 40-60 kmph across parts of northwest India. Officials stated that similar weather conditions are likely to continue on May 10 and 11.
Changing Weather Patterns
The latest spell of rain comes days after showers were recorded in the national capital last Saturday, signaling changing weather patterns in the region. In its monthly outlook released on Friday, the IMD said India is likely to receive above-normal rainfall in May, although temperatures may vary across regions.
Temperature Outlook
According to the IMD press release issued by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, maximum temperatures during May are expected to be normal to below normal across many parts of the country. However, above-normal temperatures are likely in many parts of southern peninsular India, some parts of the northeast, and northwest India. The weather agency also noted that minimum temperatures are expected to remain above normal across large parts of the country, though some areas in northwest, central, and adjoining peninsular India may record normal to below-normal night temperatures.
Climate Patterns and Monsoon Forecast
The IMD highlighted that larger climate patterns are shifting towards a warmer phase. ENSO-neutral conditions are evolving towards El Nino conditions over the equatorial Pacific, and weather models suggest that El Nino conditions may develop during the upcoming southwest monsoon season. The agency further stated that neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions currently prevail, but positive IOD conditions are likely to develop towards the end of the monsoon season.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay indoors during the storm and take necessary precautions. The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.
