Heavy rain lashes Delhi, IMD issues yellow, orange alerts; at least 15 flights diverted

Moderate thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and wind speeds ranging between 40–60 kmph are likely over parts of central, southwest, west, northwest and north Delhi, said the weather department

Heavy rain hit the national capital, Delhi, on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, causing significant disruption to air travel. An official confirmed that a total of 15 flights had to be diverted from the Delhi airport due to the severe weather conditions in the afternoon. Out of these diverted flights, eight were sent to Jaipur, five to Lucknow, and two were redirected to Chandigarh.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had actually issued yellow and orange alerts for the city, forecasting moderate rainfall, along with the possibility of thunderstorms and lightning. The weather office also warned that moderate thunderstorms could bring lightning, hail, and strong winds reaching speeds of 40–60 kmph across various parts of central, southwest, west, northwest, and north Delhi.

Airlines quickly reacted to the situation. IndiGo posted an update on social media, acknowledging the “heavy downpour” and “temporary disruption to flight schedules.” They advised travelers to be aware of potential delays and allow extra time for their journey, especially since traffic on the roads was also moving slowly. Air India similarly informed the public earlier in the day that the rain might impact their flight operations both to and from Delhi.

The rainy day started with a minimum temperature of 21∘C, which is slightly cooler than normal. The IMD explained that the rain was due to a Western Disturbance affecting the region. In the 24 hours leading up to Tuesday morning, key weather stations in the city recorded a moderate amount of rainfall. Despite the heavy rain, Delhi’s air quality was reported as “satisfactory,” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 68.