Heavy Rains Batter Delhi-NCR, Trigger Waterlogging and Traffic Chaos

Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to intense showers on Wednesday morning, compounding waterlogging and traffic snarls already triggered by a short but sharp rain spell on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted light to moderate rainfall for Wednesday but issued an orange alert in the morning, warning of more rain and potential disruption throughout the day.

Morning visuals showed rain sweeping across the city, with commuters navigating flooded streets and congested roads during peak office hours. Areas in Noida and other parts of the NCR also witnessed steady downpours, adding to the region’s seasonal monsoon woes.

Tuesday’s Rains Leave Delhi Waterlogged

Tuesday’s brief but intense spell led to heavy waterlogging in several parts of the capital. Key stretches such as Press Enclave Road and Anuvrat Marg near Qutub Minar Metro Station were clogged with traffic until noon due to submerged roadways.

According to IMD data, Delhi’s Safdarjung station, the city’s main weather observatory, recorded 8.8 mm of rain between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM on Tuesday. Other rainfall figures included:

• Ridge (North Delhi): 22.4 mm

• Rajghat: 22.2 mm

• Lodhi Road: 14.2 mm

• Najafgarh: 11 mm

• Pusa: 13.5 mm

• Ayanagar: 1.5 mm

• Palam: 0.5 mm

So far in July, Delhi has received 136.3 mm of rain, significantly lower than the monthly average of 209.7 mm. In comparison, the city recorded 203.7 mm in July 2024 and 384.6 mm in July 2023.

Despite frequent showers, no heavy rainfall spells have been logged in the city this month. The IMD classifies:

• Light rain: up to 15.5 mm

• Moderate rain: 15.6–64.4 mm

• Heavy rain: over 64.4 mm within 24 hours

With more rain expected, authorities have urged residents to exercise caution and avoid waterlogged areas as far as possible.