Delhi Braces for More Rain as Western Disturbance and Cyclone Arnab Influence Weather Conditions

Delhi is likely to receive more rainfall on Friday following overnight showers that brought cooler temperatures and temporary relief from air pollution across the national capital. The changing weather conditions are being attributed to the combined influence of a Western Disturbance and moisture associated with Cyclone Arnab. Several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region witnessed rainfall during the night and early morning hours. The showers led to waterlogging in some areas, affecting traffic movement and causing inconvenience to commuters during the morning rush.

According to rainfall observations, Safdarjung, Delhi's primary weather station, recorded 61.4 mm of rain in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 am on Friday. Lodhi Road received 63.4 mm during the same period. Other monitoring stations, including Palam, the Ridge and Ayanagar, also recorded significant rainfall. The India Meteorological Department has indicated the possibility of further rainfall activity across Delhi-NCR, with light to moderate showers and thunderstorms expected in several areas. Weather conditions are likely to improve gradually as the influence of the weather systems weakens.

The Western Disturbance, which typically brings rain and cloud cover to northwestern India, has contributed to the changing atmospheric conditions. Moisture associated with Cyclone Arnab has also played a role in influencing weather activity over parts of the country. The rainfall has brought a noticeable change in temperatures. Delhi's maximum temperature at Safdarjung settled at 25.4 degrees Celsius on Thursday, around 5.6 degrees below the seasonal average. The minimum temperature was recorded at 17.2 degrees Celsius on Friday morning.

Apart from cooler weather, the showers have also helped improve Delhi's air quality. The city's average Air Quality Index stood at 90 on Friday morning, placing it in the satisfactory category. The improvement comes after several days of elevated pollution levels across the capital. The rainfall also exposed persistent waterlogging concerns in parts of the city. Underpasses and busy road stretches experienced water accumulation, slowing traffic and creating difficulties for motorists. Commuters were advised to remain cautious while travelling through low-lying areas.

Neighbouring cities, including Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad, may also experience changing weather conditions as the rain-bearing systems affect the wider NCR region. With further showers possible during the day, residents can expect relatively pleasant and cooler conditions compared with the warmer weather experienced earlier in October. Skies are likely to become clearer as rainfall activity decreases, although temperatures and air quality will continue to depend on changing local weather conditions.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.