New Delhi, India — Residents of the national capital woke up to a noticeably different weather pattern today as light rain and thunderstorms swept across Delhi and the broader National Capital Region (NCR). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for the city, forecasting intermittent showers, gusty winds, and cooler temperatures throughout the day — a welcome change from recent dry and chilly conditions.
This shift comes as part of an active winter weather system moving across northern India, bringing moisture and cloud cover into the region. Parts of Delhi and adjacent areas such as Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram recorded light rainfall in the morning, with pockets of thunderstorms still possible into the afternoon and evening.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for rain and wind gusts, meaning residents should stay prepared for localized wet spells and cooler breezes as the day progresses. Meteorologists say these conditions are likely to continue through the weekend before gradually easing.
Alongside the rain, temperatures have dipped, with the maximum expected to stay between 18°C and 20°C — several degrees lower than recent days when clear skies and warm winds pushed mercury higher.
Air Quality Sees Temporary Relief
Another notable development is the improvement in air quality across Delhi-NCR. With moisture in the air and increased wind movement, pollutants have been dispersed more effectively, leading to better visibility and a reduction in smog levels. Authorities have responded by revoking some of the stricter pollution control measures that were in place previously. Even though the air quality remains in the moderate to poor range, this marks a temporary improvement from the very poor levels seen earlier this month.
Health experts say that rainy and windy conditions help clear PM2.5 and PM10 particulates, providing short-term relief to those sensitive to air pollution. However, residents are still advised to take precautions — especially those with respiratory conditions — as air quality can fluctuate with changing weather.
What This Means for Daily Life
As the rain and cooler weather settle in, commuters can expect:
- Rain-affected roads and potential slick surfaces during showers
- Slight disruptions or delays in outdoor travel, especially in the afternoon and evening as thunderstorms develop
- Improved air clarity and visibility, offering relief from prolonged smog conditions
- Cooler breezes and a break from cold, dry winter nights
Weather experts suggest that layers of clothing will still be helpful in the morning and night hours, but the daytime chill should be less harsh thanks to the rain and cloud cover.
Looking Ahead
Over the coming days, the system influencing Delhi’s weather may remain active, with continued chances of scattered showers and gusty winds before conditions gradually stabilize. While the rain may not be heavy, its presence is significant in this late-January period, offering both temperature relief and air quality improvement that many residents have been waiting for as winter transitions toward spring.
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Last Updated on: Friday, January 23, 2026 1:16 pm by Praneetha Kattamidi | Published by: Praneetha Kattamidi on Friday, January 23, 2026 1:16 pm | News Categories: News, Startups, Trending
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