Delhi’s skies opened up this May like never before. With 185.9 mm of rainfall already recorded at Safdarjung, the city has smashed previous monthly records by a wide margin — almost nine times the usual average of 21.9 mm, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). What a downpour!
The latest storm, hitting early Sunday morning, dumped 81.44 mm of rain in just 24 hours — the second-highest May single-day rainfall on record. This intense weather brought flash flooding, traffic jams, and even disrupted flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport, throwing the city’s rhythm into disarray.
A month that began with typical summer heat is now defined by relentless rains and waterlogging, leaving residents drenched and frustrated.
Monsoon Mood Swings: From Dry Heat to Heavy Downpour
It’s surprising how quickly the weather flipped. For weeks, Delhi baked under dry skies, but recent days have seen dark clouds rolling in with a vengeance. The IMD’s data paints a picture of an unrelenting monsoon burst, with May rainfall crossing historical highs last seen in 2008.
Local streets, especially low-lying areas like Bhairon Marg, became lakes overnight. Waterlogging worsened as drainage struggled to keep pace with the sudden deluge. Commuters found themselves wading through flooded roads or stuck in gridlocks caused by stalled vehicles and traffic signals overwhelmed by power outages.
The storm brought loud thunder and fierce lightning, shaking windows and startling even those used to Delhi’s extreme weather. Children, of course, were thrilled with the rain, splashing in puddles despite the chaos.
It’s a curious blend of awe and irritation. The rain cools the air, but the flooding and delays test everyone’s patience.
Flight Delays and Airport Woes: IGIA Grapples with the Downpour
The Indira Gandhi International Airport, usually humming with activity, felt the impact of the storm sharply. Indigo, one of the leading carriers, reported “airside congestion” that delayed both departures and arrivals well into Sunday.
Flight schedules were scrambled, and passengers were left waiting anxiously in crowded terminals. Airport staff had to juggle operational challenges as waterlogging around the airport complex slowed vehicle movement and baggage handling.
Despite the chaos, no major cancellations were reported, but travelers definitely felt the strain. For many, a trip to or from Delhi turned into a marathon of patience.
This wasn’t just about inconvenience. The disruption highlights how vulnerable urban infrastructure is to extreme weather events that seem to be coming more often.
Breaking Down Delhi’s May Rainfall Stats
Here’s a quick look at the rainfall figures to put things in perspective:
| Statistic | Measurement (mm) |
|---|---|
| May 2025 Total Rainfall | 185.9 |
| Average May Rainfall (Normal) | 21.9 |
| Previous Record (2008) | 165 |
| Highest Single Day (May 2025) | 81.44 |
| Highest Single Day (May 2021) | 119.3 |
This table sums it up nicely: Delhi’s skies have been unusually generous this May, drenching the city well beyond typical monsoon behavior.
What’s Causing This Sudden Spike?
Experts point to shifting weather patterns influenced by larger climatic changes. The monsoon, which usually arrives steadily, seems to be delivering its punch in intense bursts rather than a slow soak.
IMD meteorologist S. Raghavan explains, “We are seeing stronger low-pressure systems and moisture influx from the Bay of Bengal, combined with local factors that create conditions for heavy rainfall.”
Basically, this means more stormy days packed into a shorter period, creating the kind of havoc Delhi is experiencing.
Residents’ Reactions: Love-Hate Relationship with the Rain
People are understandably mixed in their feelings. Many welcome the relief from the brutal heat that gripped the capital earlier this month. The rain brings a fresh breath of cool air and washes away the dust.
But waterlogging, traffic snarls, and flight delays are a different story. “It’s a nightmare for anyone trying to get anywhere on time,” says Ramesh, a Delhi office worker stuck in a flooded underpass. “I love rain, but this is too much.”
Online, social media feeds flooded with memes and rants about the city’s flooded streets, while others shared pictures of children enjoying puddle-jumping moments — capturing the city’s mood perfectly.
Looking Ahead: Will the Wet Spell Continue?
The IMD forecasts more rain in the coming days as the monsoon sets in more firmly. Residents should brace for more wet and wild weather, and city officials are on alert to manage waterlogging and traffic issues.
One thing’s clear — Delhi’s weather is keeping everyone on their toes. The wettest May on record is a sign that this summer will be anything but ordinary.
