On the morning of Friday, May 2, 2025, Delhi, the National Capital Region (NCR), and parts of Haryana and Punjab were hit by intense thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, resulting in at least four deaths, widespread waterlogging, and severe disruptions to daily life.
Over 120 flights were delayed and 40 diverted at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, with a metal structure collapsing near Terminal 3.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert, later downgraded to orange, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds up to 80 kmph for the next few days as a fresh western disturbance approaches. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take precautions.
Storm Havoc: Flights Delayed, Fatalities Reported
The early morning storm brought torrential rain and winds that uprooted trees, damaged power lines, and caused extensive waterlogging across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad. In one of the most tragic incidents, a large neem tree in Dwarka’s Jaffarpur Kalan area fell onto a tube well room, killing a 26-year-old woman and her three children.
Despite prompt rescue efforts, the family could not be saved; the husband survived with minor injuries. Similar incidents of tree falls and structural collapses were reported in other parts of the city, leading to injuries and further chaos.
At IGI Airport, the storm caused a metal structure near Terminal 3 to collapse, leading to temporary suspension of operations and significant flight disruptions. According to airport officials, 122 flights were delayed and 40 diverted, affecting thousands of passengers.
“Our teams are working round the clock to restore normalcy and assist affected passengers,” said a spokesperson for Delhi International Airport Ltd. Municipal authorities have deployed emergency teams to clear debris, restore power, and manage traffic snarls, but the situation remains challenging.
Weather Alerts and Relief from Heatwave
The IMD initially issued a red alert for Friday morning, indicating a high likelihood of severe weather, but later downgraded it to orange as conditions improved slightly. However, a yellow alert remains in place for the next three days. The weather office has forecast continued thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, with additional rainfall expected as a fresh western disturbance moves across North India.
While the rainfall has brought much-needed relief from the recent heatwave-lowering temperatures and improving air quality-it has also exposed the vulnerabilities of urban infrastructure. Severe waterlogging was reported in areas such as RK Puram, Dwarka Underpass, Minto Road, and Lajpat Nagar, disrupting traffic and daily activities.
The IMD has advised residents to unplug electronic devices, avoid sheltering under trees, and stay away from waterlogged or open areas during storms. “Such events are not uncommon during this season, but preparedness and timely action can save lives,” said an IMD official.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This extreme weather event serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the urgent need for resilient city planning and robust disaster response systems. While the rain has provided relief from the oppressive heat, it has also highlighted critical gaps in infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
The Logical Indian extends heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and urges authorities to prioritise safety, empathy, and cooperation in the face of such challenges.
As climate patterns become increasingly unpredictable, how can our cities better prepare for such events while ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents? Share your thoughts and experiences below, and let’s work together towards a safer, more resilient future.
