Unseasonal Rainfall Hits Delhi-NCR as Rare Western Disturbance Strikes

Delhi-NCR is experiencing unexpected rainfall as a rare Western Disturbance sweeps through the region, causing temperatures to plummet. Residents are advised to prepare for cooler conditions as the India Meteorological Department issues a 'Yellow Alert'. Experts describe this weather phenomenon as unusual, with predictions of continued rain and potential flooding in low-lying areas. As temperatures drop significantly, the IMD warns that this respite from the heat may be short-lived, with warmer conditions expected to return soon. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving weather situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 11:17 IST

Weather Takes a Turn in Delhi-NCR

As the heat of summer approached, the weather in Delhi-NCR has taken an unexpected turn, prompting residents to pull out their winter clothing once again. A "rare" and "highly active" Western Disturbance has caused unseasonal rainfall, soaking not just Delhi but also Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad.

On Friday morning, heavy rainfall accompanied by a 'Yellow Alert' led to a drop in minimum temperatures to 16 degrees Celsius, which is 4.5 degrees below the normal range. This sudden shift in weather, which intensified from Wednesday evening, is attributed to an active Western Disturbance affecting northwestern India and keeping temperatures significantly lower than average.

Rainfall and Temperature Drops

The day began with rain and a 'Yellow Alert' across Delhi-NCR. According to data from the Safdarjung weather station, the minimum temperature recorded was 16 degrees Celsius, which is 4.5 degrees below normal.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that intermittent rain and strong winds on Thursday kept the chill in the air. For the first time in nearly a month, the maximum temperature fell below 30 degrees Celsius, reaching 26.8 degrees Celsius, which is 4.7 degrees lower than average and the lowest maximum temperature recorded in Delhi since February 24.

Experts Weigh In on the Weather

Meteorologists have described this weather system bringing rain to northern India as 'rare' and provided insights into its unusual characteristics. Dr. Pradeep, a climate scientist, tweeted on Thursday, "An unusual Western Disturbance has reached northern India. Its structure is quite different. A 'trough' (an area of low pressure) extends in a straight line for thousands of kilometers, which is generally very rare. It has the potential to create severe storms and storm clouds, so stay cautious and follow IMD guidelines."

Forecast for the Coming Days

Amateur meteorologist Navdeep Dahiya posted on Friday morning that the Western Disturbance is intensifying, predicting 'Cold Day' conditions in some areas. He mentioned that moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in Delhi-NCR, Haryana, and Chandigarh by evening, advising residents to be mindful of potential flooding in low-lying areas.

Dr. Pradeep emphasized that the next 6-8 hours are crucial for northern India, noting that the 'fastest trough line' of this weather system is very close to the region. He predicted intermittent moderate to heavy rain until the afternoon, with significant improvements in weather expected by evening.

IMD's Outlook

The IMD has indicated that this respite from the heat may be temporary. Previous reports suggest that as the impact of the current Western Disturbance diminishes, maximum temperatures are likely to rise again starting Friday.

An IMD official stated, "Very light rain has been recorded in some areas of the city. Since this Western Disturbance was weak, it will not significantly affect temperatures; they will begin to rise again from Thursday and Friday."

It is anticipated that maximum temperatures will gradually increase, reaching up to 31 degrees Celsius by Sunday, with predictions of temperatures hitting 32 degrees Celsius by Monday and Tuesday, leading to a warm end to the month. The IMD forecasts that minimum temperatures will range between 12-14 degrees Celsius over the weekend, keeping nights warm as well.