Delhi and neighboring states under yellow alert as monsoon nears its end

The India Meteorological Department placed Delhi, Haryana and Punjab on a yellow alert, predicting heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and winds of 30-40 km/h in isolated locations. A brief spell of very light to light rain is expected both in the morning and again from afternoon to evening, while maximum temperatures will be near normal at 32-34 °C and minimums around 23-25 °C. Experts note that the southwest monsoon is slated to withdraw from the national capital after 21 September, so today’s showers may be among the final wet episodes of the season.

To date, Delhi has recorded 562.6 mm of rainfall, exceeding the typical 510 mm total. Rainfall measurements varied, with Safdarjung logging 3.4 mm and other stations reporting only trace amounts. The Central Pollution Control Board reported an Air Quality Index of 72, indicating satisfactory air quality.