Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on Friday afternoon as active monsoon conditions continued to influence the region.
Meteorologists attributed the rainfall to an active monsoon trough passing close to the NCR, while a developing weather system over eastern India is also contributing to the prevailing conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'red alert' for several areas in Delhi. A red alert indicates the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204 mm in 24 hours.
More showers likely over Independence Day weekend
The weather is expected to remain unsettled over the next few days, with intermittent to heavy showers likely across Delhi and neighbouring areas. Thunderstorms and gusty winds may also accompany the rainfall.
According to the IMD forecast, wet weather conditions are likely to continue in Delhi and nearby cities until at least August 19.
Delhi recorded light rainfall at most weather stations during the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Friday. Ridge recorded 7.6 mm of rain, followed by Safdarjung at 3.3 mm, Palam at 3 mm and Lodhi Road at 1.1 mm. Ayanagar did not record any rainfall during the period.
The Independence Day celebrations on Saturday are also expected to take place under cloudy skies.
At the Red Fort, where the flag-hoisting ceremony will be held, partly cloudy conditions are forecast. Some areas could also see light rain or brief showers.
Rain brings relief to Delhi's air quality
The rainfall also brought some improvement in Delhi's air quality. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) moved into the "satisfactory" category on Friday afternoon.
According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi's AQI stood at 100 at 1 pm. It had been in the "moderate" category earlier in the morning, with an AQI reading of 103 at 9 am.
As per the CPCB classification, an AQI of 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor" and 401-500 "severe".