Red alert for Delhi-NCR: Monsoon to join western disturbance, dump heavy rain

Meteorologists say the interaction between the western disturbance and monsoon circulation is creating favourable conditions for widespread thunderstorms and intense rain.Parts of Delhi-NCR could witness very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. (Photo: Windy)The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for different parts of Delhi-NCR as an active monsoon trough and a western disturbance combine to trigger heavy rainfall across the region.According to the latest weather analysis, the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Amritsar, Bareilly, Varanasi, Ranchi and the centre of a Depression over Jharkhand and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal before extending southeastward towards the northwest Bay of Bengal.The active trough is expected to enhance rainfall activity over large parts of north India, including the national capital region.Adding to the wet spell is a western disturbance that persists as a trough in the middle and upper tropospheric westerlies. The system is positioned roughly at an altitude of about 5.8 km above mean sea level. Meteorologists say the interaction between the western disturbance and monsoon circulation is creating favourable conditions for widespread thunderstorms and intense rain. The IMD has warned that parts of Delhi-NCR could witness very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds.While the most vulnerable areas have been placed under a red alert, indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall and significant disruptions, surrounding districts remain under an orange alert, calling for heightened preparedness.Weather officials noted that the upper-air cyclonic circulation that was earlier present over south Haryana and adjoining regions has become less marked. However, abundant moisture availability and strong atmospheric instability continue to support intense rainfall activity.Authorities have cautioned residents about the possibility of waterlogging, traffic snarls, reduced visibility and localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Commuters have been advised to plan travel carefully and follow weather updates issued by the IMD and local administrations.The fresh spell of rain is expected to bring a noticeable drop in temperatures across Delhi-NCR.However, it could also lead to disruptions in transportation and daily activities as the capital braces for another round of monsoon fury driven by the combined influence of the western disturbance and active monsoon systems.- EndsPublished On: Aug 14, 2026 12:52 IST