Rain returns to Delhi, IMD issues orange alert as showers sweep capital

Rain and thunderstorms swept parts of Delhi-NCR on Thursday, October 15, as dark clouds covered the capital and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert warning of further showers, lightning and gusty winds.The weather office had warned of moderate to intense rainfall in parts of north and north-west Delhi, with winds reaching 40-50 kmph and gusts of up to 60 kmph. Other parts of the capital were also likely to receive lighter showers and thunderstorms.The orange alert was issued amid a sudden change in weather conditions, bringing relief from the recent spell of warm days. The IMD predicted that cloudy skies and moderate rain could persist through the day.VIDEO | Delhi: Rain lashes the National Capital. Visuals from ISBT Kashmiri Gate. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p) https://t.co/Gg6GjQ1avM— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 15, 2026Delhi's minimum temperature settled at 23.3 degrees Celsius on Thursday, 3.7 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature is expected to remain around 29 degrees Celsius, lower than the temperatures recorded earlier this week. WHY IS IT RAINING IN DELHI?The rainfall is linked to a western disturbance, a weather system that moves eastwards from regions west of India and can trigger rain and thunderstorms across northern parts of the country.Such systems can bring unsettled weather even after the southwest monsoon has withdrawn. A satellite image shows the weather system over Delhi. (Photo: Windy) The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms and rain in Delhi on Friday, October 16, suggesting that the wet spell may continue for another day.Further showers could affect parts of Delhi and neighbouring areas, including Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad.The intensity and distribution of rainfall, however, may vary across the region.WHEN WILL RAIN END?The IMD forecast indicates that conditions are likely to become drier from Saturday, October 17.Delhi is expected to see partly cloudy skies, with the maximum temperature climbing to 32 degrees Celsius. Commuters walk on a road amid heavy rain, in New Delhi. (Photo: PTI) The weather is likely to turn mainly clear on Sunday, October 18, with daytime temperatures rising further.For now, rain, lightning and gusty winds could affect traffic and outdoor activities, particularly in areas that receive heavier showers. Water accumulation on roads may also slow down commuters.The changing weather could temporarily wash some dust out of the air, but any improvement in Delhi's air quality will depend on rainfall intensity and subsequent wind conditions.With another round of showers possible on Friday, the capital is likely to experience a brief spell of unsettled weather before clearer skies return over the weekend.- Ends