Heavy Rain Floods Delhi-NCR, Morning Traffic in Chaos; Commuters Navigate Streets in Inflatable Boats

Delhi: A heavy downpour swept across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) early Thursday, bringing temporary relief from the lingering summer heat but causing widespread traffic disruptions. Cities including Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad witnessed severe waterlogging in several low-lying areas.

A viral video capturing a man navigating a flooded Delhi street in an inflatable boat has grabbed the internet’s attention, highlighting the intensity of the rain and its impact on daily life.

The deluge began in the early hours, drenching neighborhoods such as Lajpat Nagar, RK Puram, Lodhi Road, and areas along the Delhi–Haryana border. The Outer Ring Road near Subroto Park saw major waterlogging, slowing traffic to a crawl. In Gurugram, commuters struggled through ankle-deep water on Basai Road. Moderate rain was also reported in India Gate, Kartavya Path, Punjabi Bagh, Vasant Vihar, and parts of Noida.

Weather forecasts indicate that the wet spell will continue from August 14 to 17, with an 84% chance of moderate rain on Thursday. Precipitation is estimated at 8.32 mm, with heavier bursts expected on August 15 (15.58 mm) and August 16 (10.34 mm). Humidity is expected to peak at 80% on August 17, while daytime temperatures will range between 26°C and 36.2°C.

Authorities have urged commuters to plan ahead, especially along ceremonial routes ahead of Independence Day, warning that waterlogging in vulnerable pockets could worsen during heavy showers.