Residents across Delhi and surrounding areas in the National Capital Region (NCR) received urgent mobile alerts on their phones warning of dangerous weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been issuing frequent thunderstorm warnings, including “Extremely Severe Alerts,” highlighting the risks of strong winds (70-100 km/h), lightning, heavy rainfall, and possible hail in the coming hours.
The Alert Details
The notification, often accompanied by a loud siren-like sound, reads (in Hindi):
Extremely Severe Alert
अगले 3 घंटों में आपके जिले में कुछ जगहों पर तेज आंधी-तूफान हवा की रफ्तार 70-100 किमी/घंटा के साथ बिजली कड़कने मध्यम से भारी बारिश और ओले गिरने की बहुत ज्यादा संभावना है।”
This translates to a high-probability warning of severe thunderstorms with gusty winds up to 100 km/h, lightning, moderate to heavy rain, and hail over the next three hours in affected districts.
Such alerts have become common in recent days as western disturbances and pre-monsoon activity trigger intense localized storms across northwest India.
Recent Weather Events in Delhi-NCR
Heavy Rain and Storms: In early June 2026, Delhi-NCR experienced spells of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, providing relief from scorching heat but causing disruptions like uprooted trees, snapped power lines, and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
IMD Alerts: Red, orange, and yellow alerts have been active for thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds (40-100 km/h in gusts). Parts of Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, and neighboring districts in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana were specifically mentioned.
Impact: Residents reported sudden downpours, dust storms preceding rain, and a noticeable drop in temperatures. While welcomed for cooling, these events have led to flight delays, traffic snarls, and minor damage in some localities.
As of June 11-12, 2026, IMD forecasts indicate generally cloudy skies with spells of light to moderate rain and thunderstorms likely in Delhi. Temperatures are expected to remain moderated, with maxima around 34-36°C and minima 23-25°C in coming days, influenced by ongoing wet spells till around June 13.
Delhi-NCR lies in a region prone to pre-monsoon thunderstorms and western disturbances, which bring moisture and instability leading to intense, short-duration weather events. The “Extremely Severe Alert” system uses cell broadcast technology for rapid public dissemination, ensuring people can take timely precautions.
Safety Advisory from IMD and Authorities:
▪️Stay indoors during peak storm hours.
▪️Avoid open areas, tall trees, and unsecured structures.
▪️Secure loose objects outdoors to prevent wind damage.
▪️Farmers and outdoor workers should monitor updates closely, as hail and strong winds can damage crops and property.
▪️Keep emergency kits ready and follow local news for updates.
These events are part of the seasonal transition toward the southwest monsoon, which has been advancing across India. While providing relief from heatwaves (where temperatures had crossed 40-43°C), they underscore the need for better urban preparedness against waterlogging, power outages, and infrastructure strain in the capital region.
Residents are advised to check the official IMD website (mausam.imd.gov.in) or app for district-specific nowcasts and extended forecasts. Stay safe, Delhi-NCR!
