Delhi’s June 16 rainfall eases heatwave—monsoon spreads across India

Delhi received light to moderate rainfall on June 16, easing the intense heatwave that had gripped the capital for weeks. This rainfall marks the advancing southwest monsoon, which is spreading across India, bringing much-needed relief to several regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for parts of coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and Goa, signaling very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. "The alert, the highest in the IMD’s classification, indicates that the situation could severely affect daily life, particularly in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging," officials warned.

In Karnataka, heavy rains accompanied by strong winds of 40–50 kmph are expected, especially over coastal and north interior districts. Bengaluru experienced a cool and rainy morning on June 16, with temperatures ranging between 19.6°C and 23.1°C and humidity at 86 percent. Light showers are forecasted daily through June 22, with daytime temperatures peaking around 29–30°C.

Further north, Uttarakhand remains under an orange alert for a prolonged spell of heavy rainfall throughout the week. Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu, district authorities declared holidays for schools in Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Kundah, Gudalur, and Pandalur taluks due to continued heavy rainfall and strong winds.

This widespread monsoon activity is crucial for alleviating the heatwave conditions and replenishing water resources across the region, though it also raises concerns about flooding and disruptions in vulnerable areas.

Delhi experienced light to moderate rainfall on June 16, providing relief from a persistent heatwave as the southwest monsoon spreads across India. The India Meteorological Department issued red and orange alerts for heavy rains in Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Uttarakhand, with schools closed in parts of Tamil Nadu due to severe weather.