Hailstorm In Delhi-NCR: 10 Flights Diverted, Over 50 Delayed; Metro Services Hit — Updates
A severe hailstorm with 79 kmph winds struck Delhi-NCR, causing traffic jams, waterlogging, and downed trees. Flight operations at Delhi's IGI airport were disrupted, with diversions and delays.
A hailstorm accompanied by heavy rain with wind speed of 79 kmph hit Delhi-NCR on Wednesday evening, leading to the falling of trees, waterlogging and traffic jams in many areas. The heavy rain also hit flight operations at Delhi’s IGI airport, while Metro passengers on the Yellow Line were stranded for hours.
The strong winds and dust storms hit several parts of the national capital, with the city's primary weather station in Safdarjung recording wind speeds of 79 kmph, while Palam reported 74 kmph, Pragati Maidan 78 kmph, and Pitampura 65 kmph, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Flights Cancelled, Diverted At Delhi's IGI Airport
Earlier, the Delhi airport operator DIAL said flight operations may be impacted due to inclement weather conditions and thunderstorms in the national capital. At least 10 flights were diverted to the nearby airports, and fifty flights were delayed between 7:45pm and 8:45pm, reports Hindustan Times, quoting officials.
The flights were reportedly impacted due to the wind shear – strong winds blowing in the opposing direction – besides rain, the official added.
The visuals from Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport showed continuous rainfall, while strong winds swept through central and western Delhi. Areas such as Gol Market and Lodi Road experienced a brief but intense hailstorm, adding to the dramatic shift in weather.
In Noida, drivers reported navigating through sheets of rain and hail, leading to low visibility and waterlogged roads. The storm was driven by a cyclonic circulation forming over neighbouring Haryana, reports Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
Flight Makes Emergency Landing In Srinagar After Massive Turbulence
Amid delayed and cancelled flights in the national capital, another flight from Delhi to Srinagar was also caught in turbulence, leading to an emergency landing at the airport in Srinagar.
In a statement, IndiGo said that the flight operating from Delhi to Srinagar encountered a sudden hailstorm en route. It further added that the flight and the cabin crew followed the established protocol, and the aircraft landed safely in Srinagar.
“IndiGo flight 6E 2142 operating from Delhi to Srinagar encountered a sudden hailstorm en route. The flight and cabin crew followed established protocol, and the aircraft landed safely in Srinagar. The airport team attended to the customers after arrival of the aircraft, prioritizing their wellbeing and comfort. The aircraft will be released post necessary inspection and maintenance,” the aircraft said in a press statement.
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