Rain and Thunderstorms Bring Nationwide Relief from Heat and Pollution

Overnight rain and thunderstorms brought a noticeable shift in weather conditions in Delhi , lowering temperatures and significantly improving air quality on Tuesday.

Before the rainfall , the national capital had been experiencing warmer nights and rising pollution levels , typical of early summer conditions. However, the showers led to a sharp dip in minimum temperatures and cleaner air. Safdarjung recorded 4.6 mm rainfall , Lodhi Road 6.1 mm , and Ridge saw the highest at 11.9 mm , while Palam reported only a trace and Ayanagar none.

Post-rain, minimum temperatures fell across stations, with Ridge at 17.7°C , Lodhi Road 18.6°C , Safdarjung 19.6°C , Palam 21.1°C , and Ayanagar 22.4°C . The Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to 69 , placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category , a marked improvement from previously higher levels. The weather office has forecast a maximum of 33°C with more thunderstorms likely later in the day .

Similar weather patterns were observed in other parts of the country. In Mumbai , light pre-monsoon showers helped ease humidity and marginally improve air quality. Bengaluru witnessed evening rain that cooled temperatures, while Kolkata experienced thunderstorms bringing brief relief from heat. In Hyderabad , scattered showers contributed to a slight temperature drop and clearer skies.

Meteorologists say such pre-monsoon activity plays a crucial role in reducing heat stress and flushing out pollutants , offering temporary respite before peak summer conditions return.