Delhi gets record rainfall

Ever since October, Delhi was gripped by high pollution levels. In fact, the national capital has become one of the most polluted cities in the world. As a respite, Delhi has received record-breaking rainfall on Friday. The rainfall was recorded as the highest 24 hour December rainfall since the year 1997.

Meteorological Department officials confirmed that pollution levels in Delhi came down after this rainfall. Many people took to social media to express their happiness after the much needed rainfall. This included prominent journalist Barkha Dutt. “What is it about Barkha that makes everything better. The rain in Delhi is like solace, purge, lifeline, everything all at once”, she tweeted.

Skymet weather reported that the rainfall was due to Western disturbances in the hills. Traffic was heavily affected in the city. Many flights had to be deviated due to strong winds and hailstorms. There was waterlogging in many parts in and around Delhi.

In 1997, Delhi received 75.5 mm rainfall. On Friday, it received 33.5 mm rainfall till 5.30 pm. The lowest temperature in the city was recorded at 12.8 degree Celsius. Nearby Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana states also received good rainfall on Friday. Experts stated that the city and nearby areas will remain foggy for the next two days. The temperatures will remain dipped till Monday. “Rain to bring a breath of fresh air to New Delhi, northern India, areas that have seen dangerous levels of air pollution in recent weeks”, tweeted AccuWeather.