New Delhi, December 27, 2024: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an alert for extreme rainfall, dense fog, and cold wave conditions in the northern regions, including the national capital. The unrelenting downpour has thrown daily life into disarray, causing severe disruptions in transportation, electricity supply, and daily routines.
Heavy Rains Lash Delhi
Delhi witnessed incessant rainfall throughout the day, with waterlogging reported in key areas such as Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar, and ITO. Commuters faced significant delays as traffic snarls stretched across major thoroughfares, exacerbated by reduced visibility due to dense fog.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced flight delays, and train services were also impacted. The city’s public transport systems struggled under the strain, with buses and taxis navigating waterlogged streets.
Cold Wave Conditions Intensify
Adding to the woes, temperatures plummeted across the region, with the IMD reporting a drop of 3-5°C in the minimum temperature. The persistent chill has left many vulnerable, especially those without adequate shelter. The weather department predicts the cold wave will persist over the next two days, further intensifying the discomfort.
Western Disturbance Behind Extreme Weather
According to the IMD, the current spell of heavy rainfall and foggy conditions is due to an active western disturbance. The phenomenon, characterized by moist winds originating from the Mediterranean, is colliding with the cold air from the Himalayas, leading to the severe weather.
IMD Director-General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated, “The intensity of western disturbances is increasing, a trend that correlates with rising global temperatures. These disturbances are likely to bring more rain and snowfall to northern hill states in the coming days.”
Impact on Daily Life
- Transportation Disruptions: Waterlogged roads have brought vehicular traffic to a crawl, while pedestrians waded through knee-deep water in several areas.
- Health Concerns: Hospitals have seen a rise in patients with cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and respiratory issues. The stagnant water has also raised concerns about waterborne diseases.
- Power Outages: Several localities faced intermittent power cuts as heavy rains impacted transformers and electrical installations.
Authorities Take Action
The Delhi government and municipal corporations have deployed water pumps in severely flooded areas and are coordinating with the IMD to keep residents updated. The Delhi Traffic Police have issued advisories, urging commuters to avoid low-lying regions and use metro services where possible.
Emergency services remain on high alert, and NGOs are distributing blankets and food to those in need.
IMD Forecast: More Rain Ahead
The IMD has forecast continued rain over the next 48 hours, warning of potential flooding in low-lying areas. Hill states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are likely to witness snowfall, which could disrupt travel further.
Expert Opinion
Climate experts have linked the intensifying weather patterns to global warming. “We are witnessing the impacts of climate change on localized weather systems,” said Dr. Ramesh Gupta, a climatologist. “Increased urbanization, combined with rising temperatures, is amplifying these extreme events.”
Precautionary Measures
Residents are advised to:
- Stay updated with weather alerts through official channels.
- Avoid non-essential travel during heavy rainfall or fog.
- Ensure drains and gutters are clear to prevent waterlogging in residential areas.
Conclusion
As Delhi braces for continued rains and biting cold, authorities and citizens must remain vigilant. The situation underscores the growing challenges of managing extreme weather in urban areas, highlighting the urgent need for resilient infrastructure and better planning. The IMD and local governments are working round the clock to mitigate the impact, but the path to recovery depends on coordinated efforts and public cooperation.
