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19 Mar 2026


Delhi-NCR gets sudden rain, storm

Cool spell likely to continue as IMD warns of more storms till March 21

Delhi-NCR got an unexpected break from the rising heat as rain, thunderstorms and strong winds swept through the region on March 18. What started as a regular warm day quickly turned cooler by evening, with many residents enjoying the sudden change in weather.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, saying this spell is not over yet. Similar conditions, including light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds, are expected to continue until March 21.

The shift is being caused by an active western disturbance, a weather system that is currently affecting much of North India. Because of this, not just Delhi but nearby states like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are also seeing rainfall and stormy conditions.

On Wednesday, several parts of the city recorded light to moderate showers, along with lightning and winds reaching up to 40–50 kmph. The rain brought down temperatures noticeably, giving the city a brief return of winter-like coolness in the middle of March.

However, officials are urging people to stay careful. Strong winds and thunderstorms can lead to minor disruptions such as traffic jams, falling branches or temporary power cuts.

Weather experts say this kind of weather is unusual for this time of year. They link it to changing atmospheric patterns, which may also bring chances of hailstorms or dust storms in some areas.

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