Heavy Storms Disrupt Delhi-NCR Flights, Dozens Diverted

Heavy Storms Disrupt Delhi-NCR Flights, Dozens Diverted

*New Delhi, May 2024* — Unseasonal heavy thunderstorms and torrential rain swept through the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) late Monday night and into Tuesday, throwing life out of gear in the region and causing significant disruptions to air travel at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI). The severe weather resulted in dozens of flight diversions, delays, airport damage, and widespread waterlogging on city roads.

Over 200 Flights Affected Amid Severe Thunderstorms

The sudden and intense thunderstorms forced more than 200 flights to be diverted, delayed, or canceled at Delhi airport. According to reports, both domestic and international operations faced disruptions as airlines scrambled to reroute aircraft to alternative airports nearby, including Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad.

Multiple airlines warned passengers of lengthy delays and potential cancellations. Travelers arriving early Tuesday were met with long waits, changed departure times, and lack of clarity about when flights would resume normal schedules.

Record-Breaking Rainfall in Delhi

Delhi witnessed the wettest May in recorded history, with the latest storm battering the city overnight. These unseasonal rainfall events, coupled with episodes of hail, led to widespread power outages in various neighborhoods as trees were uprooted and distribution lines damaged.

According to The Financial Express, the overnight storm triggered not only airport disruptions but also widespread flooding and waterlogging in many parts of the city. Morning commuters encountered submerged roads and snarled traffic as municipal workers struggled to clear clogged drains and fallen trees.

Damage Reported at Delhi Airport Terminal 1

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) confirmed that operations at the airport’s Terminal 1 (T1) were hampered due to heavy rainfall. Water leakage and some damage within the terminal were reported as airport authorities rushed emergency maintenance teams to affected areas. DIAL stated that passenger safety remained the top priority and that a thorough assessment of repairs was underway.

With heavy rain pounding the airfield, ground operations slowed, compounding delays as ground staff and airport officials prioritized the safe movement of both passengers and aircraft.

Broader Impact Across India

This episode comes amid a wider pattern of unseasonal rainfall and hailstorms disrupting life in several Indian cities. According to BBC reports, the abrupt change in weather has affected urban centers across northern and central India, catching residents and city administrators off guard. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather advisories urging residents to remain cautious, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Ongoing Delays and Restoration Efforts

By Tuesday afternoon, airport authorities were working to clear the backlog of delayed flights and restore normalcy to passenger services. Airlines issued advisories, asking passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for check-in and security procedures, as queues remained long due to rescheduled operations.

Meanwhile, local authorities and civic agencies continued efforts to clear waterlogged streets and restore power to affected areas of Delhi-NCR.

Conclusion

The unseasonal heavy rain and thunderstorms underscore the growing unpredictability of weather patterns in north India, impacting daily life and critical infrastructure such as airports and transportation networks. Travelers in the region are advised to stay updated with official announcements and exercise caution during ongoing restoration efforts.

For real-time updates, follow official airport and airline social media handles and news advisories.

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