New Delhi: In a historic weather event, Delhi witnessed its heaviest June rainfall in nearly nine decades, shattering records and disrupting normal life across the capital city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that Fridays rainfall of 23cm till 8.30am was the highest recorded in a single day for June since 1936.IMD defines it as very heavy rainfall The unexpected deluge, defined by IMD as very heavy rainfall, occurred primarily between 4am and 7am, with the Safdarjung area receiving nearly 15cm within this short period. This downpour, far exceeding IMDs earlier prediction of light to moderate rain, brought Delhi to a standstill, causing widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions.Southwest monsoon arrived in Delhi IMD further declared that the southwest monsoon has officially arrived in Delhi, albeit a day later than its usual schedule of June 27. This delay was attributed to a sluggish monsoon phase that only recently gathered momentum, propelled by a low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal.Orange alert for next two daysFollowing Fridays torrential rain, IMD has issued an orange alert for the next two days, forecasting continued moderate to heavy rain on Saturday and expecting heavy to very heavy rainfall on Sunday. This weather pattern, significantly cooler than normal, has already reduced Delhis maximum temperature to 32.5°C on Friday, five degrees below average, with a minimum of 24.7°C, three degrees below average.This heavy rainfall is unprecedented for June in Delhi, stated M Mohapatra, director general of IMD, emphasizing the unusual intensity and short duration of the downpour. Such events are driven by specific meteorological conditions, including the presence of a low-pressure area, which has now moved over northwest India.June registered 23.45 cm of rainfall With June already registering 23.45cm of rainfall, well over three times the monthly average of 7.41cm, this month is on track to surpass rainfall records set in 1936. The last time Delhi experienced such significant June rainfall was in June 1936, when 23.55cm was recorded.Potential flooding and other associated risksAs Delhi prepares for more rain in the coming days, authorities are on alert to manage potential flooding and other associated risks. The citys residents are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and take necessary precautions amid the continuing monsoon activity.
