Story perspectives

Delhi’s heavy rain cuts AQI, drops temperatures

By Drooid · Oct 16, 2026, 4:22 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Heavy rainfall in Delhi lowered daytime temperatures and improved air quality.
Rainfall hit 41.6 mm on Oct 12 and 15.9 mm on Oct 15, the highest October total since 2022.
Temperature fell to 28.3 °C at Safdarjung on Oct 15, about five degrees below normal.
AQI dropped to 149 (moderate) on Oct 15, down from 181 the day before.
India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for heavy showers, lightning and gusty winds until 3 pm on Oct 15.

History

Historical Context

In July 2015, Delhi experienced unprecedented monsoon floods that inundated the city and prompted emergency measures. The India Meteorological Department recorded 1,300 mm of rain over three days, while the National Disaster Management Authority reported 200 fatalities and $1 billion in damages. Similarly, the October 2024 heavy showers delivering 41.6 mm on Oct 12 and 15.9 mm on Oct 15 have lowered temperatures at Safdarjung and improved Delhi’s air quality. These recurring extreme precipitation events underscore the need for upgraded drainage and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stricter emissions policies to mitigate future health and infrastructure risks.

1 of 2

Story summary

Heavy rainfall in Delhi lowered daytime temperatures and improved air quality.
Rainfall hit 41.6 mm on Oct 12 and 15.9 mm on Oct 15, the highest October total since 2022.
Temperature fell to 28.3 °C at Safdarjung on Oct 15, about five degrees below normal.
AQI dropped to 149 (moderate) on Oct 15, down from 181 the day before.
India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for heavy showers, lightning and gusty winds until 3 pm on Oct 15.

1 / 2