Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to a distinct early winter chill this morning, a refreshing change after weeks of fluctuating post-monsoon temperatures. The significant drop in mercury is largely attributed to the unseasonal rainfall that lashed parts of the region over the past 24-48 hours, bringing much-needed relief from the lingering warmth.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported widespread light to moderate showers across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad. This precipitation, coupled with cool winds, has caused daytime temperatures to plummet several degrees below the seasonal average, ushering in conditions reminiscent of late November rather than mid-October. The maximum temperature today is expected to hover around 25-26 degrees Celsius, a stark contrast to the earlier 30-32 degrees.
“The current weather pattern is influenced by a western disturbance interacting with easterly winds, leading to cloudiness and rainfall,” explained an IMD official. “This has effectively cleared much of the atmospheric haze, also contributing to a noticeable improvement in air quality across the region.” The dip in temperature is expected to persist for the next few days, providing a pleasant transition into the colder months.
But Will It Rain More?
While the immediate relief is palpable, the crucial question on everyone’s mind is whether more rainfall is on the horizon. According to the latest IMD forecast, the intensity of rainfall is expected to decrease significantly over the next 24 hours. There might be isolated light showers in some areas, but widespread rain is unlikely.
“The western disturbance is gradually moving eastward, and its influence over Delhi-NCR will wane,” the IMD stated. “We anticipate a generally clear sky or partly cloudy conditions for the remainder of the week. Temperatures will continue to be on the cooler side, particularly during the mornings and evenings, marking the true onset of the early winter season.”
Residents are advised to keep light warm clothing handy, especially for early morning commutes and late evenings. The improved air quality is an added bonus, offering a breath of fresh air to a region often battling pollution woes. While the heavy spell of rain might be over, the cooler temperatures are here to stay, signalling the delightful arrival of winter’s embrace in Delhi-NCR.
