Heavy Rainfall and Unseasonal Hail Forecast Across Delhi NCR as Weather Systems Intensify

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow and orange alerts for the national capital and surrounding areas, forecasting moderate to intense rainfall accompanied by thunder and gusty winds through much of the day. This follows an active Western Disturbance, which is bringing unseasonal moisture and instability to northwestern India.

City residents woke to cloudy skies and intermittent showers, with localities in New Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad recording rainfall early Tuesday morning. The IMD has also cautioned that hailstorms — unusual in April — may peak later in the day, especially over parts of Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh.

“We are monitoring the situation closely,” an IMD official said. “The combination of lingering western disturbances and upper‑air instability is contributing to heavier than normal rain and the potential for hail in some areas.”

The sudden weather change has brought temporary relief from recent warm conditions but is expected to disrupt morning commutes and outdoor activities. Travelers were advised to exercise caution due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.

Schools and workplaces reported scattered closures or delays in some sub‑urban areas as thunderstorms and hail showers intensified in the late morning. Local authorities have issued advisories to residents to stay indoors during hail events and avoid travel during thunderstorms.

Climatologists note that hail during this part of the pre‑monsoon season is relatively rare, generally occurring when strong convective activity combines with cold upper‑air currents. Officials say such disturbances may become more frequent with changing climate patterns but remain notable for their timing and intensity.

The IMD expects the weather system to persist through Wednesday, before conditions slowly begin to improve later in the week with drier air moving in from the west.