Cloud cover, rain likely in Delhi-NCR as IMD issues fresh weather advisory for Northwest India; hailstorm in neighbouring states

Delhi-NCR witnessed a sudden shift in weather on Tuesday afternoon as dark clouds covered the skyline, followed by strong winds, bringing down visibility and creating near-evening-like conditions during the day.

The India Meteorological Department also shared an update on X, warning that under the influence of two active western disturbances, a wet spell is set to continue across northwest India this week, with peak activity expected on April 3 and 4.The post on X, dated March 31, 206, 03:39PM reads, “ Under the influence of two active Western Disturbances, a wet spell is set to continue across Northwest India this week, with peak activity expected on 3rd & 4th April 2026.

Stay Alert: Rainfall likely across multiple regions. Isolated hailstorms expected in Jammu & Kashmir (3rd April). Himachal Pradesh may witness hailstorms on 3rd & 4th April. Plan your travel and outdoor activities accordingly.

Stay safe and keep updated with official weather advisories.”

Sudden change in Delhi-NCR weather

The abrupt weather change follows several days of fluctuating conditions across Delhi and neighbouring states, where intermittent showers have kept temperatures relatively pleasant despite brief spells of heat.

However, on Tuesday, the cloud formation gathered speed and winds became stronger, indicating a possible rainfall warning in short periods of time. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), light to moderate rainfall, gusting winds, and lightning are possible in Delhi-NCR throughout the day. Areas such as Gurugram, Manesar, and Nuh are expected to have wind speeds of up to 40-60 kmph.

The main cause of these changing weather conditions is an active western disturbance, which is an extra-tropical weather phenomenon originating over the Mediterranean and moving eastward towards India.

When it reaches the northern plains of India and interacts with moisture in the air, instability occurs in the atmosphere, resulting in cloud formation and rainfall.In addition, a cyclonic circulation has formed over Punjab and Haryana, thereby intensifying the system and speeding up the formation of storm clouds.

Hailstorm activities in nearby states

The weather system has already led to hailstorms in parts of south-west Haryana and north Rajasthan, and conditions remain favorable for such activities to occur in isolated areas.

While hail is not a certainty in Delhi, such activities are possible in areas where intense storm cells have formed.Relief from heat, more rain aheadThe continuous weather activity is also expected to bring a drop of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in the temperatures, which will provide temporary relief from the rising heat. The IMD has also indicated that unsettled weather is likely to continue through the week, with another spell of active weather expected on April 2, followed by peak rainfall activity in the days to follow.Advisory for the residentsResidents are advised to remain cautious with the changing weather patterns, especially with the onset of rain and gusty winds. With the wet spell continuing in Delhi-NCR and the rest of the northwest region, residents are advised to keep an eye on official announcements and prepare for the changing weather conditions.