Heavy rain, thunderstorm hit ops at Delhi airport; IMD issues 'severe weather' alert for NCR

Heavy rain lashed Delhi during the early hours of Friday, affecting flight operations at the Delhi International Airport. Several flights were delayed or rerouted owing to the sudden downpour. 

 

 

Authorities at the  Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi inclement weather conditions impacted flight operations at the airport and passengers were advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates. "Our on-ground teams are diligently working with all stakeholders to ensure a seamless and efficient passenger experience," DIAL said in a post on X earlier today. One of the busiest airports in the country, the Delhi airport handles around 1,300 flight movements daily. 

 

Air India said its flight operations in northern India have been affected due to the inclement weather. "Some of our flights to and from Delhi are being delayed or diverted, which is likely to impact our overall flight schedule. We are doing our best to minimise disruptions," the airline posted tweeted.

 

The Indian Meteorological Department issued 'severe weather' alert for Delhi on Friday. In an alert issued at 5.15am, IMD predicted "moderate to intense spells of rainfall accompanied with moderate to severe thunderstorm and lightning" at many places of Delhi and NCR, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Safidon, Panipat, Sohana, Palwal, Nuh, Aurangabad and Hodal in Haryana; Gangoh, Shamli, Kandhla, Nandgaon, Barsana, Raya, Hathras, Mathura, Sadabad, Agra, Jajau in Uttar Pradesh; and Bhiwari, Deeg and Bharatpur in Rajasthan.

 

IMD advised the public to stay indoors and avoid travelling if possible. The public was also advised to stay away from waterbodies and objects that conduct electricity. The weather department warned strong winds could damage power, communication lines and vulnerable structures. 

India