Fri Dec 27 04:12:02 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Shivers Under Unexpected Winter Storm; Orange Alert Issued
**New Delhi, December 27, 2024** – Delhi woke up to a surprisingly chilly Friday morning, as a sudden weather change brought rain, cold winds, and reduced visibility across the national capital region (NCR). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 12 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has issued an orange alert, predicting light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning throughout Friday and Saturday. A tweet from the IMD warned of the possibility of isolated hailstorms in the next two hours. The department urged residents to heed traffic advisories, avoid contact with electrical wires and poles, and remain cautious on slippery roads.
While some residents expressed delight at the cooler temperatures, comparing the weather to a hill station, the rain has not significantly improved air quality. At 8 am, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained at 372, categorized as “very poor.”
The inclement weather has already impacted travel. IndiGo airlines issued a travel advisory, urging passengers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport due to reduced visibility and the ongoing rain. Authorities anticipate traffic congestion and slower journey times due to the challenging driving conditions.
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