July 10, 2025: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued severe rainfall alert for Delhi, ‘red alert’ upgrading it from the earlier orange warning, as heavy rainfall continues to lash the National Capital Region (NCR). The escalation in alert level came after unexpected downpours inundated multiple areas between 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm on Wednesday.
Rainfall Intensity Surges Across Delhi
Several weather stations across the city recorded significant precipitation in a short span:
- Najafgarh: 60 mm
- Aya Nagar: 50.5 mm
- Pragati Maidan: 37 mm
Interestingly, the central Safdarjung observatory, often considered the city’s representative station, recorded only 1.4 mm of rain, highlighting the spatial variability of rainfall within the city.
Roads Flooded, Traffic Paralyzed
Heavy rains led to widespread waterlogging and traffic jams, particularly in:
- Gurugram: Major roads submerged, disrupting movement
- Nehru Place, Aurobindo Marg, and Lajpat Nagar: Severe congestion reported
- Chirag Delhi flyover and National Highway 8: Impacted by flooding
Commuters across the NCR faced long delays and detours, with many expressing frustration over poor infrastructure, especially in upscale localities like Gurugram, where basement flooding has become a recurring issue.
Netizens React
Residents took to social media to highlight the challenges posed by poor drainage and urban planning. Comments referenced “multi-crore houses with basement pools” sarcastically, pointing to elite housing developments being equally vulnerable to seasonal flooding.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
The IMD noted:
- Minimum temperature: 26.4°C
- Expected maximum: 34°C
- Relative humidity: 81% at 8:30 am
The weather department has warned of moderate to intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning over the coming hours, prompting the continuation of the red alert across the region.
Advisory for Residents
Authorities are urging citizens to:
- Avoid waterlogged roads
- Delay unnecessary travel
- Monitor official IMD updates
- Prepare for potential power outages and transit disruptions
With further showers expected, the situation remains dynamic, and vigilance is advised.