New Delhi, June 16 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted partly cloudy conditions across Delhi-NCR on Tuesday, with the possibility of very light to light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

According to the weather department, strong surface winds are also expected to sweep across the region, reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, with gusts occasionally touching 60 kmph. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may remain in the range of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius. The changing weather pattern is expected to provide periodic relief from the prevailing summer heat.

The forecast comes after Delhi-NCR witnessed a noticeable change in weather on Monday, bringing respite from the intense heat and humidity that had affected the region in recent days. Several parts of the national capital received showers during the day, accompanied by dust storms and strong winds. The sudden change in conditions prompted weather authorities to issue advisories as gusty winds moved across the city.

Residents woke up to rainfall and overcast skies on Monday as an active western disturbance continued to influence weather across northwestern India. The system contributed to cooler temperatures and improved weather conditions, offering relief from the prolonged spell of hot weather.

Meteorologists have indicated that light to moderate rainfall is likely to persist over the next few days, helping keep temperatures under control. In the plains, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh and western Uttar Pradesh, isolated to scattered rainfall activity is expected to continue until June 19.

Weather experts said the current pattern is linked to a western disturbance moving across northwest India. As the system gradually advances, rainfall intensity is expected to decrease, shifting from the widespread heavy showers witnessed in recent days to lighter and more moderate precipitation across the region.

Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “moderate” category on Monday. Air Quality Index (AQI) readings included 164 at Anand Vihar, 143 at Bawana, 152 at Burari Crossing, 137 at Chandni Chowk, 132 at DTU, 187 at Dwarka Sector-8, 174 at IIT Delhi, 132 at ITO, 159 at Narela, 151 at Pusa, 157 at R.K. Puram, 167 at Sonia Vihar and 185 at Wazirpur.

–IANS

jk/dpb