Meanwhile, outer regions of the National Capital Region (NCR), including Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, have been placed under a red alert, indicating the likelihood of more intense weather activity. Skies across several parts of the NCR turned overcast during the day, signaling an approaching storm system.
Alert Levels Explained
According to IMD classifications:
Red alert: Possibility of moderate to severe thunderstorms
Orange alert: Moderate thunderstorms expected
Yellow alert: Light rain and thunderstorms likely
Current Weather Conditions in Delhi
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 25.4°C at Safdarjung on Thursday morning. Other stations reported similar readings:
Palam: 24.9°C
Lodhi Road: 23.6°C
Ridge: 25°C
Ayanagar: 24.1°C
The IMD has forecast thunderstorms with light rain in isolated areas later in the day, with the maximum temperature expected to reach around 36°C.
The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 136, placing it in the moderate category.
A Contrasting April for Delhi Weather
April 2026 has brought a notable mix of weather conditions to the capital, ranging from rainfall and gusty winds to intermittent heat spells. This unusual pattern has made it one of the wettest, cleanest, and relatively cooler Aprils in recent years.
Delhi recorded its wettest April in 18 years, receiving 27.9 mm of rainfall so far, compared to 38.6 mm in April 2008. Pre-monsoon showers in the first half of the month contributed significantly to this total.
Despite occasional heat spikes, the city experienced one of its coolest Aprils in the past two years, with an average maximum temperature of around 37°C. Notably, only one heatwave day has been recorded this month.
Improved Air Quality
Rainfall and strong winds also played a key role in improving air quality. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), this April has been the cleanest in four years.
Average AQI (till April 28): 179
Air quality days:
1 “satisfactory”
17 “moderate”
10 “poor”
This marks an improvement compared to previous years:
April 2025: AQI 210
April 2024: AQI 182
April 2023: AQI 180
April 2022: AQI 255
AQI Categories
As per CPCB standards:
0–50: Good
51–100: Satisfactory
101–200: Moderate
201–300: Poor
301–400: Very Poor
401–500: Severe
Outlook
With thunderstorms expected across parts of the NCR and varying alert levels in place, residents are advised to remain cautious. The shifting weather patterns highlight a dynamic pre-monsoon phase, bringing both relief from heat and occasional severe conditions.
