Heavy rain, strong winds lash Delhi-NCR after IMD’s red alert | Latest News India

Delhi-NCR was hit by a spell of heavy rain and strong winds late Saturday night, bringing much-needed respite from the scorching summer heat. 

The rain was reported hours after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Delhi, warning of severe thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and squally winds reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h.

“A thunderstorm cell is approaching Delhi and adjoining areas from the west/northwest,” the IMD said.

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“Under its influence, severe thunderstorm/dust raising wind activity accompanied by frequent lightning and gusty winds (speed reaching 40-60 km/h or more) is likely to affect parts of the city in the next 1–2 hours,” it added.

The IMD advised people to stay indoors and not take shelter under trees. “Residents are advised to take necessary precautions. Avoid open fields, stay indoors, and do not take shelter under trees,” an advisory from the weather office said.

The national capital earlier recorded a minimum temperature of 28.4 degrees Celsius, 1.7 degrees below the season’s average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Heavy rains, strong winds cause damage in Kerala

Heavy rains and strong winds caused widespread damage to homes and crops, power outages and waterlogging on roads in Kerala as the monsoons arrived early in the state on Saturday.

Uprooted trees and broken branches damaged homes and vehicles in various parts of the state, and dislodged electricity poles caused power disruptions in several areas.

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Roads were waterlogged in many rural and urban areas of the state as heavy rains continued to lash the state throughout the day.

State Revenue Minister K Rajan said some places might receive huge rains in a short period without any warning, leading to flash floods and landslides.

The minister said that preparations were in place to set up over 3,000 camps to accommodate over five lakh persons if required.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced the early onset of monsoons in the state.