As heavy rain lashed parts of Delhi-NCR on Tuesday morning, a red alert was issued for most areas of the capital for a three-hour window from around 9.30 am to 12.30 pm, prompting airlines to issue advisories warning passengers of possible delays due to gusty winds and inclement weather.
Waterlogging was reported in several parts of Delhi, slowing down traffic and affecting movement. Visuals shared by news agency ANI showed commuters wading through rain-hit roads, highlighting the impact of the downpour across the city.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded 8 mm of rainfall in the 24-hour period ending at 8.30 am on Tuesday. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 26.8 degrees Celsius, 0.5 notch below the season's average.
The IMD has forecast a cloudy sky with moderate rain, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 30 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity was recorded at 70 per cent at 8.30 am.
The air quality was recorded in the satisfactory category at 9 am, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 87, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed.
Air India informed passengers that flight operations might be affected. The airline said, "#TravelAdvisory: Gusty wind and rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi this morning. Please check your flight status here http://airindia.com/in/en/manage/f before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey."
IndiGo also released a weather-related travel update, advising customers to plan extra travel time to the airport.
It wrote, "Travel Advisory A Rainy Day Reminder - With heavy rainfall expected over #Delhi, we're seeing a chance of delays and slower traffic to and from the airport. While we can't control the skies, we're doing everything possible to keep your journey steady on the ground. Please check your flight status and consider giving yourself a little cushion of time to reach the airport. We'll keep you posted and we're always around if you need help."
Source: India Today