JUNE 27, 2024: Delhi and NCR, June 27, 2024: Delhi and its adjoining National Capital Region (NCR), including Noida, experienced a refreshing spell of showers on Thursday morning, providing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. The heavy rain brought down temperatures significantly, offering respite to residents.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the arrival of the monsoon over large parts of northwest India in the next three to four days, though a specific date for Delhi's monsoon onset has not been confirmed. The region is anticipated to receive monsoon rains around June 30. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for June 29, forecasting light to moderate rain in Delhi, and an orange alert for June 30, anticipating moderate to heavy rain.

We are expecting an increase in rain intensity in northwest India from June 28, and the monsoon could reach Delhi on June 29 or 30. Delhi-NCR may see heavy rainfall during this period, based on which the onset of the monsoon could be declared,” stated Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet, a private weather forecasting service.

Parts of the national capital and NCR received pre-monsoon showers on Wednesday, keeping Delhi’s maximum temperature below 40°C for the second successive day. Despite the lower temperatures, the heat index (HI) or “real feel” temperature remained at 52°C, consistent with the past two days. Delhi’s maximum temperature was recorded at 39.7°C on Tuesday and 40.4°C on Monday. The IMD has forecasted a maximum temperature of 38°C and a minimum of 29°C for Thursday.

Residents of Delhi and NCR welcomed the showers, which provided a much-needed break from the intense heat of recent weeks. The heavy rain not only cooled the temperatures but also improved air quality, offering a breath of fresh air to the city's inhabitants.