Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds to Hit Delhi on Saturday
A sudden shift in weather is expected in Delhi on Saturday, June 14, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds, offering temporary relief from the scorching summer heat. Temperatures may peak around 40 °C, while the minimum stays elevated, near 29–30 °C. These make for significant pre-monsoon activity in the city.
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 29.6 °C on Saturday, approximately 1.6 °C above seasonal norms, with relative humidity reaching 68 % by 8:30 am, according to the IMD. Meanwhile, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an AQI of 156 at 9 am—situated in the “moderate” category (101–200).
Local weather bulletin details from IMD forecast partly cloudy skies, scattered light rain or thunderstorms with lightning, and gusty winds between 30–40 km/h—occasionally reaching 50 km/h during storm episodes.
IMD scientists attribute this change to an incoming western disturbance combined with a developing trough line over northwest India. The disturbance is expected to bring moisture-laden easterly winds, triggering thunderstorm activity through midweek.
Residents have voiced mixed reactions on social media. Many welcome the chances of rain to ease the oppressive heat, while others express concern over potential disruptions from sudden wind violence and lightning. “First rain after days—feels like a blessing,” tweeted one user, while another cautioned: “Gusty winds are already uprooting tree branches near my home.”
Delhi has faced extreme heat waves in early June, with peak temperatures soaring above 45 °C and the heat index reaching over 50 °C earlier this month . On Friday, Safdarjung recorded a high of 41.2 °C, still above normal by 1–2 °C.
This shift marks the onset of pre-monsoon showers, expected to continue through June 19, and may delay the onset of the southwest monsoon over the national capital. Historically, Delhi’s monsoon arrives by late June or early July. In recent forecasts, the IMD reported the western disturbance could usher in pre-monsoon rains and thunderstorms from June 13–19.
Officials urge residents to remain cautious—avoid standing under trees or near power lines, and anticipate sudden weather shifts. The IMD has issued an orange alert for thunderstorms and strong winds, with no immediate heatwave expected in the coming week
