New Delhi: Flight operations were hit as strong winds, thunder, lightning, and heavy rains lashed Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). According to the media reports, over 120 incoming and outgoing flights at Delhi airport faced disruption this morning, with average delays of 46 minutes for arrivals and 54 minutes for departures. Additionally, as many as 40 flights were diverted to the new destinations. 

However, the change in weather brought relief from the heat that had gripped the region. While the Delhi airport and the ground staff tried to manage the delays and irate passengers, many airlines urged travellers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

“Some of our flights to and from Delhi are being delayed or diverted, which is likely to impact our overall flight schedule. We are doing our best to minimize disruptions,” Air India said in its statement on X.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi, cautioning residents about the possibility of severe thunderstorms and strong winds reaching speeds of 70 to 80 kmph in the coming hours. A dense cloud system moved over the city, resulting in storm-like conditions, with Palam station recording wind speeds of up to 74 kmph.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an alert for Delhi this morning, warning of severe thunderstorms and squally winds between 70 and 80 kmph over the next few hours.

According to the IMD forecast, isolated to scattered rainfall with thunderstorm, lightning & strong winds speed reaching 40-60 Kmph likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan during 1 May to 6 May.

Earlier, the IMD predicted that moderate to intense rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40–90 km/hr, are likely to continue in several areas on Friday, including Delhi-NCR.

(With IANS inputs)