Delhi's double trouble: from heatwave hell to torrential downpour

New Delhi, June 29: Earlier this month of June, residents of Delhi endured one of the worst heat waves in history, with temperatures soaring close to 50 degrees Celsius. The intense heat affected hundreds of thousands of people across Delhi and the surrounding Haryana and Uttar Pradesh regions, leaving them desperate for relief.

When the long-awaited respite came, it brought a different kind of misery. Heavy pre-monsoon showers led to severe water-logging, breaking records with an unprecedented 228 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours. This was the highest June rainfall since 1936, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The sudden downpour wreaked havoc across Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram, causing severe waterlogging and traffic chaos yesterday. Submerged vehicles on flooded roads became a common sight, and despite today being a holiday with less traffic, low-lying areas and underpasses remain waterlogged. Delhi continues to witness rainfall. The IMD predicts the imminent arrival of the monsoon, with more rain expected in the coming days.

Tragic Incidents 

The torrential rains yesterday resulted in multiple fatalities and extensive damage The heavy rainfall has led to tragic consequences. At least three labourers are feared dead after falling into a pit at an under-construction site in Vasant Vihar, a posh area where many diplomats reside.

Two children drowned in a rainwater-filled ditch in New Usmanpur, North East Delhi. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has recovered one labourer’s body from the Vasant Vihar construction pit, while the search for the other two continues.

A fatal airport roof collapse caused the death of a taxi driver and injured half a dozen others. The airport incident also damaged several vehicles. The downpour has disrupted flights, closed a metro station, blocked underpasses, and caused water logging inside hospitals, delaying emergency surgeries.

In Greater Noida, a wall collapsed killing three children and injuring four. The city's brief relief from the heat has turned into chaos, with sinking cars and massive traffic jams.

Despite assurances from the Delhi government about being well-prepared, weather observers are concerned about the changing rainfall patterns.

The recent rains, more intense and heavier than usual, signify the growing impact of climate change. According to one climate observer, the increasing temperatures—up by 1.5 degrees Celsius—affect the planet and lead to more evaporation and, consequently, more storms and rainfall.

Without significant lifestyle changes and efforts to protect the environment, the future could hold even more severe weather events.

Delhi received 228.1 mm of rainfall in 24 hours at its main Safdarjung weather station until 8:30 a.m. on Friday, a 266 per cent departure from normal, according to the IMD.

This level of rainfall has not been recorded in June for at least the last 15 years. On Friday, in just three hours, the area around Delhi airport received 148.5 mm of rain, compared to 101.7 mm for the entire month of June last year.

The seasonal monsoon rains, which begin from the southern tip of the country at the end of May, provided relief from the heatwave that persisted in Delhi until last week. According to IMD data, the city recorded at least 40 consecutive days of temperatures at or above 40 degrees Celsius until June 22.

Last year, key roads in Delhi were flooded as water from the Yamuna River overflowed, leading authorities to evacuate thousands from low-lying areas and divert traffic.

Northern India experienced record rainfall last monsoon season, starting in June, with around 100 people dying due to severe flooding in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana.

As Delhi faces the dual challenges of heatwaves and heavy rainfall, the impact of climate change on urban cities becomes increasingly apparent. The urban metro cities and other States of our country must prepare for more extreme weather events and consider sustainable measures to mitigate the effects of a changing climate.

Facing the challenges of extreme weather events, such as heat waves and heavy rainfall, requires both individual preparedness and community efforts. Here are some practical steps for a common person to cope with rainfall and flooding conditions:

Stay Informed. Monitor weather forecasts and warnings from reliable sources. Follow updates from local authorities and the IMD.

Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not walk or drive through flooded streets or areas. Stay away from waterlogged underpasses and low-lying areas. You never know which ditch is open or closed.

Prepare Your Home. Ensure proper drainage around your home. Store important documents and valuables in waterproof containers. Have emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.

Create an Emergency Plan. Identify safe routes and shelters in case of evacuation. Make a list of emergency contacts and share it with family members.

Health Precautions. Avoid contact with floodwater, which can be contaminated. Keep necessary medications handy. Follow hygiene practices to prevent waterborne diseases.

Protect Your Vehicle. Park your vehicle in a safe, elevated area. Avoid driving through waterlogged roads as it can damage the vehicle and be dangerous.

Stay Connected. Keep your phone charged and have backup power sources. Stay in touch with neighbours and community groups for mutual support.

Build Community Resilience. Participate in local disaster preparedness programs. Share resources and information with your community. Support local initiatives for better urban planning and infrastructure to handle extreme weather. Engage with local authorities to improve drainage systems and safe shelters. Adopt environmentally friendly practices to reduce your carbon footprint. Plant trees and support green initiatives to combat climate change.