Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced significant disruptions on August 14, 2025, due to unprecedented rainfall that caused widespread waterlogging and traffic chaos. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert, forecasting intense showers, thunderstorms, and lightning, which materialized across the capital. Rainfall recorded at the Safdarjung station was 13.1 mm, while Ayanagar received 57.4 mm within a 24-hour period. This downpour led to a drop in the minimum temperature to 23.6°C, 3.2°C below the normal average for this time of year, with high humidity contributing to uncomfortable conditions.
Commuters faced considerable hardship as numerous areas, including Lajpat Nagar and RK Puram, experienced severe waterlogging, rendering major roads impassable and causing extensive traffic congestion. The Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories, urging citizens to avoid routes like Old GT Road due to inundation. Reports indicated hours-long traffic standstill, with vehicles navigating through partially submerged streets. Concerns were also raised about potential public health hazards due to accumulated garbage in waterlogged areas. The water level of the Yamuna River at the Old Railway Bridge neared the warning mark, reaching 204.43 meters against a warning level of 204.50 meters, attributed to water releases from the Wazirabad and Hathnikund Barrages due to rainfall in upper catchment areas. Authorities were closely monitoring the situation, with agencies on alert for potential flood-like conditions. The IMD forecast indicated a continuation of the wet spell with moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning persisting through August 17, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Independence Day celebrations and travel plans. The city's infrastructure, particularly drainage systems, faced a significant test, highlighting ongoing urban planning challenges in managing extreme weather events.