Relief from Heat But A New Set of Headaches
Delhi finally caught a break from its relentless heatwave when heavy pre-monsoon showers arrived on June 17, 2025. Early in the morning, the city saw dark clouds and a downpour that felt almost like a blessing. Temperatures dropped sharply, with the mercury climbing only to 34°C while the lowest dipped to 23°C, both providing a genuine sigh of relief for millions who had endured sweltering days and sleepless nights.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) wasn’t surprised, having issued a red alert for the downpour, and then shifting to a yellow alert for the following days. The forecast includes thunderstorms, strong gusty winds kicking up at 50-60 km/h, and more rain—potentially heavy—hanging over the city until at least June 23. So, umbrellas aren’t going back in the cupboard anytime soon.
The rain, though, was a double-edged sword. With the relief came chaos. Many parts of Delhi rains-hit NCR—think Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Faridabad—woke up to waterlogged roads and snarled traffic. Morning commutes turned into endurance tests, as commuters splashed through knee-deep puddles and honked through immovable lines of vehicles. Side streets and underpasses vanished beneath swirling water, making navigation tricky even for locals who usually know every shortcut.
Flight Chaos and Early Monsoon Hopes
While the city slogged through flooded streets, Indira Gandhi International Airport dealt with its own storm. At least twelve flights were diverted as low visibility and slippery runways forced airlines to scramble. Passengers faced long delays and sudden itinerary changes, with many stuck waiting for updates as rain kept pounding the tarmac. Those scheduled to fly in or out this week might want to brace for more of the same, as the IMD predicts that the unstable weather will stick around.
The good news, though, is that the early rain fits the IMD’s earlier forecast of above-normal rainfall for June. This wetter-than-usual start has farmers in much of North India quietly crossing their fingers: an on-time or even early monsoon—expected between June 20 and June 23—could make all the difference for Kharif crop sowing. In a country where timely rain can shape the whole growing season, this isn’t just about comfort; it’s about livelihoods.
Civic authorities, meanwhile, have gone into overdrive, urging people to stay indoors during heavy bursts of rain and thunderstorms. Safety warnings blare across news channels and social media, reminding residents of the dangers of venturing out during lightning and strong winds. But for many daily wage workers, staying in isn't an option, adding a layer of anxiety every time the sky grows dark.
Weather-watchers are keeping their eyes peeled, not just for more impactful showers but for signals of monsoon’s proper arrival. If the rest of June follows this soggy script, Delhiites might be in for more cool mornings—and a whole lot of wading through puddles on the way to work.