A western disturbance is expected to keep weather conditions unsettled across parts of North India on September 16 and 17, bringing rain, thunderstorms, lightning and isolated heavy showers to several areas.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast rain at many places across Punjab and Haryana on September 16 and 17, along with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds at isolated locations. Heavy rainfall is also possible at isolated places in both states during this period.
Delhi-NCR is also likely to experience a spell of wet weather. IMD forecasts indicate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh and Punjab during September 16 and 17. Some parts of the National Capital Region could receive heavier showers during the active spell.
Delhi NCR rain forecast and Punjab Haryana heavy rain
Residents of Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh could see cloudy skies, intermittent rain and thunderstorms as the weather system influences the northern plains.
Punjab and Haryana are under warnings for heavy rain as well as thunderstorms and lightning on both September 16 and September 17. Localised intense rainfall could temporarily affect traffic and create waterlogging in vulnerable urban areas.
In Delhi and neighbouring NCR cities, light to moderate rain is expected at several locations, while isolated areas may experience stronger thunderstorms or heavier spells. Gusty winds could also accompany thunderstorm activity in parts of the region.
Rajasthan's forecast is more mixed. IMD's Rajasthan warnings indicate thunderstorm and lightning activity over East Rajasthan on September 16, while West Rajasthan does not currently carry a comparable rainfall warning for September 16 or 17.
IMD weather forecast and monsoon withdrawal Rajasthan
The unsettled weather comes as the Southwest Monsoon moves closer to its seasonal withdrawal phase.
According to the IMD, conditions are becoming favourable for the withdrawal of the Southwest Monsoon from parts of West Rajasthan around September 19. The withdrawal would mark the beginning of the monsoon's gradual retreat from northwestern India.
Rainfall activity is also expected in several other parts of the country during the coming days, although the timing and intensity will vary by region.
The combination of thunderstorms, lightning and locally heavy rainfall means residents should keep track of district-level IMD alerts, especially before travelling or planning outdoor activities.
People in areas experiencing strong thunderstorms should avoid exposed locations during lightning, while commuters in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh may want to prepare for temporary traffic disruption and waterlogging during heavier rain spells.
With the western disturbance active and the monsoon beginning its withdrawal process, North India could see a mix of late-season monsoon showers and thunderstorm activity through September 17.
