New Delhi: Weather conditions across north India have taken a sharp turn once again, with Delhi and the National Capital Region witnessing a sudden change on Friday morning. Thick cloud cover enveloped the city since early hours, bringing much-needed relief from the unseasonal heat recorded over the past few days.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for Delhi-NCR, warning of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds over the next two to three hours. According to IMD officials, wind speeds may touch 40 kmph, with gusty winds crossing 50 kmph in some areas.
The sudden shift in weather has been attributed to an active western disturbance, which impacted the Himalayan region a day earlier. Snowfall was reported across parts of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, the effects of which are now being felt in the plains.
On Thursday, Delhi recorded an unusually high maximum temperature of 27.1°C, nearly seven degrees above normal, making it the warmest January day in the last seven years. Meteorologists attributed the spike to clear skies and easterly winds that increased solar radiation during daytime hours.
However, intermittent showers on Friday are expected to bring temperatures down significantly. The IMD has forecast a maximum temperature of 18–20°C on Friday, which could further dip to 16–18°C by Saturday. Minimum temperatures are likely to hover between 5–6°C, indicating a temporary return of winter chill.
Weather officials have cautioned residents to remain alert, as rainfall, lightning and gusty winds could disrupt traffic and daily activities. The current cool spell is expected to last till January 26, after which another western disturbance on January 27 may once again lead to a rise in temperatures.
