Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh.

There was a sudden spell of rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh today.

The weather department has warned of hail precipitation over and nearby areas of Meerut, Modinagar, Loni, Khair and isolated places of Delhi.

Rainfall has also been predicted for many places in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana.

All states in the North-eastern region too are likely to receive rainfall today.&nbsp;

Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh.

Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh. There was a sudden spell of rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh today. The weather department has warned of hail precipitation over and nearby areas of Meerut, Modinagar, Loni, Khair and isolated places of Delhi. Rainfall has also been predicted for many places in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana. All states in the North-eastern region too are likely to receive rainfall today.

Rain hits Delhi, brings mercury down

The monsoon is likely to hit Kerala on June 6, five days after its normal onset date, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on May 15.

Monsoon likely to hit Kerala on June 6

Authorities in Louisiana and Mississippi rescued people from their homes after heavy rains this weekend caused major flooding in the region.

Heavy rains in southern US leave some trapped

The meteorological department of India on Wednesday predicted the Western Disturbance, that had caused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rains-thunderstorm-leave-nearly-50-dead-in-4-states-211163">severe rain and thunderstorm conditions</a> in northwest India and parts of central India on Tuesday, to have moved&nbsp;eastwards. As a result, the Met&nbsp;department has predicted "widespread rainfall, isolated thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds" over Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, northeast Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand for the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains, coupled with thunderstorm and lightning, hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday.

The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra.

For Thursday, the weather department has predicted heavy rainfall in parts of Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh.

Thunderstorm, accompanied with gusty winds and lightning is likely to occur in parts of Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram &amp; Tripura, Telangana, Rayalaseema, South Interior Karnataka and Tamilnadu.

The meteorological department of India on Wednesday predicted the Western Disturbance, that had caused severe rain and thunderstorm conditions in northwest India and parts of central India on Tuesday, to have moved eastwards.

The meteorological department of India on Wednesday predicted the Western Disturbance, that had caused severe rain and thunderstorm conditions in northwest India and parts of central India on Tuesday, to have moved eastwards. As a result, the Met department has predicted "widespread rainfall, isolated thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds" over Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, northeast Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand for the next 24 hours. Nearly 50 people were killed as rains, coupled with thunderstorm and lightning, hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday. The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra. For Thursday, the weather department has predicted heavy rainfall in parts of Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh. Thunderstorm, accompanied with gusty winds and lightning is likely to occur in parts of Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram & Tripura, Telangana, Rayalaseema, South Interior Karnataka and Tamilnadu.

Rain, thunderstorm likely for another 24 hours over Punjab, Delhi, UP, other states: Met department

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-30-killed-as-rain-dust-storm-batter-gujarat-rajasthan-and-madhya-pradesh-211101">hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight</a>, officials said Wednesday.

The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief.

Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat.

The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain &amp; storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm.

In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains.&nbsp;

"4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said.

Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims.

Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done.

Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents.

Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured".

Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops.

Survey of crop damage is underway.&nbsp;

BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage.&nbsp;

Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage.

The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others.

Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. 
Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat.

"Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet.

The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm.

BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics.&nbsp;

"Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged.

In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region.

Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said.&nbsp;

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state.

"While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod.

"We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added.&nbsp;

Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat.

In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said.

Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm.

In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday. The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief. Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat. The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country". "An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain & storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm. In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains. "4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said. Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims. Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done. Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents. Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured". Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops. Survey of crop damage is underway. BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage. Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage. The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours. Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others. Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat. "Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet. The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm. BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics. "Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region. Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state. "While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod. "We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added. Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat. In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said. Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm. In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Rains, thunderstorm leave nearly 50 dead in 4 states

India's MET Dept. predicts near-normal monsoon rains this year. Let's Listen in what IMD has to say on this.

WION Wallet: IMD expects monsoons to be near normal

At least seven people were killed on Monday in rain-related incidents in Pakistan's northwest Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, police said.

There were two different incidents.&nbsp;

In the Chitral district, at least three persons were killed due to a landslide. One was in Danin village after huge boulders and debris fell from the hill on houses and killed people.&nbsp;

The second was in Bunner district where four people were hit by a van which plunged into a deep ravine while taking a sharp turn. they died on the spot.

The local people rushed to the site retrieved the bodies and shifted them to the nearby hospital.

Rains and snowfall often cause landslides and flash floods in northern Pakistan where millions live in mountainous areas.

At least seven people were killed on Monday in rain-related incidents in Pakistan's northwest Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, police said. There were two different incidents.

At least seven people were killed on Monday in rain-related incidents in Pakistan's northwest Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, police said. There were two different incidents. In the Chitral district, at least three persons were killed due to a landslide. One was in Danin village after huge boulders and debris fell from the hill on houses and killed people. The second was in Bunner district where four people were hit by a van which plunged into a deep ravine while taking a sharp turn. they died on the spot. The local people rushed to the site retrieved the bodies and shifted them to the nearby hospital. Rains and snowfall often cause landslides and flash floods in northern Pakistan where millions live in mountainous areas.

At least seven people dead in rain-related incidents in Pakistan

Monsoon likely to be below normal this year: Skymet

Delhi and the national capital region including Noida and Ghaziabad among others witnessed rains and cool breeze on early Sunday morning and according to the weather department the temperature is expected to dip in the next four to five days.

Light spells of rain and thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds will also continue intermittently.

This comes a day after the national capital recorded the coldest day of March in four years at 13 degrees Celsius on Saturday.

With partly cloudy sky, the minimum and maximum temperature at Delhi-Safdarjung was recorded at 11.5 degree Celsius ( a departure of minus two degrees from normal ) and 19.3 degree Celsius (a departure of minus eight degrees Celsius), IMD said.

Delhi and Gurgaon witnessed rain through the night and early morning today. In the last 24 hours from 08:30 am on Friday, Delhi’s Palam Observatory recorded 7.1 mm of rain and Safdarjung at 9.6 mm, according to IMD. The skies cleared up to sunshine in late morning.

"Overcast conditions with light to moderate rain and thunderstorm accompanied by&nbsp;hailstorm, lightning and strong surface winds are expected to till March 4," a met official said.

The rainfall is due to a western disturbance that lies as a cyclonic circulation over East Afghanistan and as an induced cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and neighbourhood, the country's apex weather agency said.

Fresh rainfall and winds have brought some respite from air pollution but the AQI was recorded at 142 in the "moderate" category, according to SAFAR. 
Delhi is likely to witness an extended winter season till March 6 due to the cold wind and intense western disturbances," private weather forecasting agency Skymet said.&nbsp;

Rains were also recorded in several parts of&nbsp;Northeast&nbsp;including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. South Indian states will experience drizzling along with thunderstorm, reported Skymet.&nbsp;

Delhi and the national capital region including Noida and Ghaziabad among others witnessed rains and cool breeze on early Sunday morning and according to the weather department the temperature is expected to dip in the next four to five days.

Delhi and the national capital region including Noida and Ghaziabad among others witnessed rains and cool breeze on early Sunday morning and according to the weather department the temperature is expected to dip in the next four to five days. Light spells of rain and thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds will also continue intermittently. This comes a day after the national capital recorded the coldest day of March in four years at 13 degrees Celsius on Saturday. With partly cloudy sky, the minimum and maximum temperature at Delhi-Safdarjung was recorded at 11.5 degree Celsius ( a departure of minus two degrees from normal ) and 19.3 degree Celsius (a departure of minus eight degrees Celsius), IMD said. Delhi and Gurgaon witnessed rain through the night and early morning today. In the last 24 hours from 08:30 am on Friday, Delhi’s Palam Observatory recorded 7.1 mm of rain and Safdarjung at 9.6 mm, according to IMD. The skies cleared up to sunshine in late morning. "Overcast conditions with light to moderate rain and thunderstorm accompanied by hailstorm, lightning and strong surface winds are expected to till March 4," a met official said. The rainfall is due to a western disturbance that lies as a cyclonic circulation over East Afghanistan and as an induced cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and neighbourhood, the country's apex weather agency said. Fresh rainfall and winds have brought some respite from air pollution but the AQI was recorded at 142 in the "moderate" category, according to SAFAR. Delhi is likely to witness an extended winter season till March 6 due to the cold wind and intense western disturbances," private weather forecasting agency Skymet said. Rains were also recorded in several parts of Northeast including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. South Indian states will experience drizzling along with thunderstorm, reported Skymet.

Rains in Delhi, temperature to dip over next few days

The national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida on Saturday woke up to scattered rainfall bringing some respite from the cold wave and air pollution.

The thunderstorm with hail is predicted for Sunday too and a generally cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle has been forecast for Monday, March 4, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

The rainfall is due to a western disturbance that lies as a cyclonic circulation over East Afghanistan and as an induced cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and neighbourhood, the country`s apex weather agency said.

At 8 in the morning, the Air Quality Index was&nbsp;docking at 173 which falls in the "moderate category".

Overall air quality over Delhi is in moderate category but it is predicted to enter into the &nbsp;"poor" category on Sunday owing to increased moisture in the air and normalisation of wind speed which was becoming high during the day time for the past few days, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

However, moisture is not going to last longer and may precipitate bringing back the AQI to "moderate" from Sunday onwards, it said.

According to Skymet Weather, a private weather forecasting agency, "On March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to south Uttar Pradesh. This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," Skymet added.&nbsp;

The national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida on Saturday woke up to scattered rainfall bringing some respite from the cold wave and air pollution.

The national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida on Saturday woke up to scattered rainfall bringing some respite from the cold wave and air pollution. The thunderstorm with hail is predicted for Sunday too and a generally cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle has been forecast for Monday, March 4, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The rainfall is due to a western disturbance that lies as a cyclonic circulation over East Afghanistan and as an induced cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and neighbourhood, the country`s apex weather agency said. At 8 in the morning, the Air Quality Index was docking at 173 which falls in the "moderate category". Overall air quality over Delhi is in moderate category but it is predicted to enter into the "poor" category on Sunday owing to increased moisture in the air and normalisation of wind speed which was becoming high during the day time for the past few days, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). However, moisture is not going to last longer and may precipitate bringing back the AQI to "moderate" from Sunday onwards, it said. According to Skymet Weather, a private weather forecasting agency, "On March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to south Uttar Pradesh. This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," Skymet added.

Delhi wakes up to light showers, air quality remains 'moderate'

At least 50 people have been killed as moderate and intense rains plague northern and central coastal regions of Peru causing severe flooding and damage to bridges, schools and other infrastructure.

Local media on Monday reported Peru's Centre for National Emergency Operations (COEN) had raised the death toll since the rainy season started in September to 50 after two people were killed by a landslide in Huancavelica.

Meteorologists blame the wetter rainy season on the El Nino effect. Peru's National Study of the El Nino Phenomenon released an official report on February 22 indicating March could see even more "rainy and very rainy days," which could cause further damage to Peru's northern and central coasts.

Thousands of families have been affected by the flood waters already with many calling on the government to do more to alleviate the situation.

The government has sent food and water to affected regions, but some residents are calling for new bridges over ravines and gorges, some of which have been flooding for weeks.

At least 50 people have been killed as moderate and intense rains plague northern and central coastal regions of Peru causing severe flooding and damage to bridges, schools and other infrastructure.

At least 50 people have been killed as moderate and intense rains plague northern and central coastal regions of Peru causing severe flooding and damage to bridges, schools and other infrastructure. Local media on Monday reported Peru's Centre for National Emergency Operations (COEN) had raised the death toll since the rainy season started in September to 50 after two people were killed by a landslide in Huancavelica. Meteorologists blame the wetter rainy season on the El Nino effect. Peru's National Study of the El Nino Phenomenon released an official report on February 22 indicating March could see even more "rainy and very rainy days," which could cause further damage to Peru's northern and central coasts. Thousands of families have been affected by the flood waters already with many calling on the government to do more to alleviate the situation. The government has sent food and water to affected regions, but some residents are calling for new bridges over ravines and gorges, some of which have been flooding for weeks.

At least 50 dead after intense rain plague northern, central coastal regions of Peru

People in Delhi woke up to light rain on Thursday as the capital and its surrounding areas such as Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad witnessed gusty winds and thunderstorm owing to an intense Western Disturbance over Northern India.

The capital is expected to witness intense spells of rain and thundershowers with isolated <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hailstorm-heavy-rainfall-lash-delhi-ncr-195907">hailstorm </a>activity for the next two days.&nbsp;

"Lightly scattered rains are expected to continue over the national capital region till February 15. By February 16, the weather systems will move towards east India giving rain in Uttar Pradesh," said Skymer, a private weather forecasting agency."

As a consequence of the rainfall activity, maximums in Delhi and its adjoining areas will drop by 2 Degree Celsius to 4 Degree Celsius, while the maximums will again start increasing February 16 onwards," it added.

In terms of weather, the maximum and minimum temperatures were 19 Degrees Celsius and 14 Degree Celsius. Today, the weather over the Delhi-National Capital Region became pleasant.

According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), apart from rain, a thick blanket of smog has also engulfed Delhi on Thursday as the air quality has plummeted to the very poor category with air quality index 323 in the morning.

At Lodhi road, the AQI (Air Quality Index) was 315 with PM (Particulate Matter) 2.5 at 8:00 in the morning. In the Ayanagar area, the air quality also dipped to the very poor with 309. Also in capital's famous locality Mathura road which also has Purana Qila, the AQI fell to 328 with PM 2.5.

In addition, due to fog, as many as 10 trains were rescheduled after getting delayed by at least by 2 hours.

Delhi, which is home to approx 19 million people, is reeling under the menace of air pollution from the past couple of years. The region faced a major air quality crisis last year as pollution levels shot through the roof and even forced the shutdown of schools.

Moreover, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had described the capital as a "gas chamber" and local administration was compelled to declare a public health emergency.&nbsp;

People in Delhi woke up to light rain on Thursday as the capital and its surrounding areas such as Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad witnessed gusty winds and thunderstorm owing to an intense Western Disturbance over Northern India.

People in Delhi woke up to light rain on Thursday as the capital and its surrounding areas such as Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad witnessed gusty winds and thunderstorm owing to an intense Western Disturbance over Northern India. The capital is expected to witness intense spells of rain and thundershowers with isolated hailstorm activity for the next two days. "Lightly scattered rains are expected to continue over the national capital region till February 15. By February 16, the weather systems will move towards east India giving rain in Uttar Pradesh," said Skymer, a private weather forecasting agency." As a consequence of the rainfall activity, maximums in Delhi and its adjoining areas will drop by 2 Degree Celsius to 4 Degree Celsius, while the maximums will again start increasing February 16 onwards," it added. In terms of weather, the maximum and minimum temperatures were 19 Degrees Celsius and 14 Degree Celsius. Today, the weather over the Delhi-National Capital Region became pleasant. According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), apart from rain, a thick blanket of smog has also engulfed Delhi on Thursday as the air quality has plummeted to the very poor category with air quality index 323 in the morning. At Lodhi road, the AQI (Air Quality Index) was 315 with PM (Particulate Matter) 2.5 at 8:00 in the morning. In the Ayanagar area, the air quality also dipped to the very poor with 309. Also in capital's famous locality Mathura road which also has Purana Qila, the AQI fell to 328 with PM 2.5. In addition, due to fog, as many as 10 trains were rescheduled after getting delayed by at least by 2 hours. Delhi, which is home to approx 19 million people, is reeling under the menace of air pollution from the past couple of years. The region faced a major air quality crisis last year as pollution levels shot through the roof and even forced the shutdown of schools. Moreover, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had described the capital as a "gas chamber" and local administration was compelled to declare a public health emergency.

Delhi witnesses light showers, more rain likely in next few days

The message emerging out of last year is loud and clear. Extreme weather events are on a rise in the country and we must plan and prepare for erratic weather patterns that are the new ‘normal’.&nbsp;

Almost every month of the last year had one or the other “unprecedented” weather events. We had hailstorms, unseasonal rainfall, strong thunderstorms and lightning, floods and droughts, long dry spells, cyclones, and both our monsoons — southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon — were below normal. Also, average temperature over the country was “significantly above normal”, making 2018 the sixth warmest year on record since 1901.

Early last year, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh were hit by unseasonal rains and hailstorms that damaged standing rabi (winter) crops in over 4.76 lakh hectares. Maharashtra is prone to hailstorms, as documented in a countrywide analysis of hailstorms between 1985 and 2015 by the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Pune office.&nbsp;

But, as scientists at the Met department point out, “From 2013, there is prolonged persistence of hailstorms in the state, causing extensive damage.” Hailstorms now affect a larger area in the state over several days. There are concerns over the increasing size of hail too.

After hailstorms, large parts of the country faced a series of extremely strong thunderstorms and dust storms. Down To Earth, a fortnightly documented how 44 intense thunderstorms struck over 16 states killing 423 people, which was “unprecedented”. Thunderstorms were accompanied by lightning strikes that destroyed properties and killed people. Data of the National Crime Records Bureau shows the average number of people dying of lightning strikes every year between 2006 and 2015 was about 50 per cent higher than the decade before. Scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune have examined satellite data between 1990 and 2013 and found a two to three per cent increase in lightning strikes in the country.

Last year witnessed another set of extremities — floods and droughts. Flood and heavy rain-related incidents killed over 800 people during pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. In its long-range forecast of the southwest monsoon (June to September) and northeast monsoon (October to December), the Met department had predicted normal monsoon rainfall. However, a ‘below normal’ monsoon rainfall, along with erratic rains induced floods and droughts in several states. For instance, Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, etc., suffered floods during the southwest monsoon season. But, these states are now staring at an acute drought. Several other states — Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, etc — have officially declared a drought too. Also, the last northeast monsoon rainfall has been “substantially below normal” and sixth lowest since 1901.

M Rajeevan, secretary, Union ministry of earth sciences, rightly points out that 2018 has been a year of many disasters. And as global warming continues, there should be an increase in the frequency of these disasters because of larger variability on both the sides. Therefore, we should expect more floods as well as more deficient rains (droughts), and need to prepare for such a state of the climate.

&nbsp;Interestingly, in spite of both monsoons being deficient, 15 depressions and four cyclones hit the Indian coast last year. There are several research studies that link changing the climate to an increasing frequency of intense tropical cyclones in the north Indian Ocean. Data of 122 years of tropical cyclone frequency over the north Indian Ocean from 1877 to 1998 shows “there is indeed a trend in the enhanced cyclogenesis during November and May”. There has been a two-fold increase in the tropical cyclone frequency over the Bay of Bengal, a 17 per cent increase in the intensification rate of cyclonic disturbances to the cyclone stage, and a 25 per cent increase to severe cyclone stage over the north Indian Ocean during November in the past 122 years, the study noted.

Analysis by Down To Earth suggests that extreme weather events have increased from just one during 1900-1910 to 61 during 1971-80. And that number almost tripled to 162 during 2001-2010.

Whereas no single extreme weather event can be attributed to climate change, it is also true that the increased frequency and intensity of these extreme events are due to human-induced climate change. Extreme rainfall, extreme heat, extreme thunderstorms, extreme cold waves, extreme tropical storms are the new “normal”. And we need adaptation strategies and disaster response plans to face exigencies arising out of this new ‘normal’.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-extreme-weather-events-have-become-the-new-normal-2713527">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The message emerging out of last year is loud and clear. Extreme weather events are on a rise in the country and we must plan and prepare for erratic weather patterns that are the new ‘normal’.

The message emerging out of last year is loud and clear. Extreme weather events are on a rise in the country and we must plan and prepare for erratic weather patterns that are the new ‘normal’. Almost every month of the last year had one or the other “unprecedented” weather events. We had hailstorms, unseasonal rainfall, strong thunderstorms and lightning, floods and droughts, long dry spells, cyclones, and both our monsoons — southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon — were below normal. Also, average temperature over the country was “significantly above normal”, making 2018 the sixth warmest year on record since 1901. Early last year, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh were hit by unseasonal rains and hailstorms that damaged standing rabi (winter) crops in over 4.76 lakh hectares. Maharashtra is prone to hailstorms, as documented in a countrywide analysis of hailstorms between 1985 and 2015 by the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Pune office. But, as scientists at the Met department point out, “From 2013, there is prolonged persistence of hailstorms in the state, causing extensive damage.” Hailstorms now affect a larger area in the state over several days. There are concerns over the increasing size of hail too. After hailstorms, large parts of the country faced a series of extremely strong thunderstorms and dust storms. Down To Earth, a fortnightly documented how 44 intense thunderstorms struck over 16 states killing 423 people, which was “unprecedented”. Thunderstorms were accompanied by lightning strikes that destroyed properties and killed people. Data of the National Crime Records Bureau shows the average number of people dying of lightning strikes every year between 2006 and 2015 was about 50 per cent higher than the decade before. Scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune have examined satellite data between 1990 and 2013 and found a two to three per cent increase in lightning strikes in the country. Last year witnessed another set of extremities — floods and droughts. Flood and heavy rain-related incidents killed over 800 people during pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. In its long-range forecast of the southwest monsoon (June to September) and northeast monsoon (October to December), the Met department had predicted normal monsoon rainfall. However, a ‘below normal’ monsoon rainfall, along with erratic rains induced floods and droughts in several states. For instance, Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, etc., suffered floods during the southwest monsoon season. But, these states are now staring at an acute drought. Several other states — Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, etc — have officially declared a drought too. Also, the last northeast monsoon rainfall has been “substantially below normal” and sixth lowest since 1901. M Rajeevan, secretary, Union ministry of earth sciences, rightly points out that 2018 has been a year of many disasters. And as global warming continues, there should be an increase in the frequency of these disasters because of larger variability on both the sides. Therefore, we should expect more floods as well as more deficient rains (droughts), and need to prepare for such a state of the climate. Interestingly, in spite of both monsoons being deficient, 15 depressions and four cyclones hit the Indian coast last year. There are several research studies that link changing the climate to an increasing frequency of intense tropical cyclones in the north Indian Ocean. Data of 122 years of tropical cyclone frequency over the north Indian Ocean from 1877 to 1998 shows “there is indeed a trend in the enhanced cyclogenesis during November and May”. There has been a two-fold increase in the tropical cyclone frequency over the Bay of Bengal, a 17 per cent increase in the intensification rate of cyclonic disturbances to the cyclone stage, and a 25 per cent increase to severe cyclone stage over the north Indian Ocean during November in the past 122 years, the study noted. Analysis by Down To Earth suggests that extreme weather events have increased from just one during 1900-1910 to 61 during 1971-80. And that number almost tripled to 162 during 2001-2010. Whereas no single extreme weather event can be attributed to climate change, it is also true that the increased frequency and intensity of these extreme events are due to human-induced climate change. Extreme rainfall, extreme heat, extreme thunderstorms, extreme cold waves, extreme tropical storms are the new “normal”. And we need adaptation strategies and disaster response plans to face exigencies arising out of this new ‘normal’. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Extreme weather events have become the new ‘normal’

Communities were cut off, farmers stranded and cows washed offshore as heavy rain pelted northeast Australia Sunday, with one major river breaking 118-year-old floodwater records.&nbsp;

The Bureau of Meteorology said Queensland’s Daintree River rose to 12.60 meters — a level not seen in over a century — and local authorities warned that some residents in remote areas could be cut off for days.&nbsp;

The heritage listed Daintree Rainforest received more than 300 millimetres of rain in just 24 hours and Northern Queensland is bracing for monsoonal conditions for the rest of the week. &nbsp;

Residents in this tropical region of Australia are used to a heavy wet season, but the recent deluge has cut off a ferry line that is the only means of accessing some areas.&nbsp;

Port Douglas Shire Council Mayor, Julia Leu, told AFP those who are still in their homes could be cut off for two days, with no power or phone service.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the conditions have caused havoc for farmers and livestock.&nbsp;

One family of four were stranded on the farm they manage, with live power lines falling into floodwaters. &nbsp;

Local paper Newsport Daily reported the caretakers of the "Tranquility" farm were stuck with their two children for 16 hours until the State Emergency Services helicopter could rescue them. &nbsp;

Residents rushed to a downstream beach to help a handful of livestock washed away by floodwaters. &nbsp;

A number of cows could be seen out at sea or struggling to find their feet on the soft sand of the coastline. &nbsp;

While much of the country has been experiencing a brutal heat wave with record temperatures, the Bureau of Meteorology said the monsoonal conditions will not be easing anytime soon, with thunderstorms and rain forecast for the rest of the week.

Communities were cut off, farmers stranded and cows washed offshore as heavy rain pelted northeast Australia Sunday, with one major river breaking 118-year-old floodwater records.

Communities were cut off, farmers stranded and cows washed offshore as heavy rain pelted northeast Australia Sunday, with one major river breaking 118-year-old floodwater records. The Bureau of Meteorology said Queensland’s Daintree River rose to 12.60 meters — a level not seen in over a century — and local authorities warned that some residents in remote areas could be cut off for days. The heritage listed Daintree Rainforest received more than 300 millimetres of rain in just 24 hours and Northern Queensland is bracing for monsoonal conditions for the rest of the week. Residents in this tropical region of Australia are used to a heavy wet season, but the recent deluge has cut off a ferry line that is the only means of accessing some areas. Port Douglas Shire Council Mayor, Julia Leu, told AFP those who are still in their homes could be cut off for two days, with no power or phone service. Meanwhile, the conditions have caused havoc for farmers and livestock. One family of four were stranded on the farm they manage, with live power lines falling into floodwaters. Local paper Newsport Daily reported the caretakers of the "Tranquility" farm were stuck with their two children for 16 hours until the State Emergency Services helicopter could rescue them. Residents rushed to a downstream beach to help a handful of livestock washed away by floodwaters. A number of cows could be seen out at sea or struggling to find their feet on the soft sand of the coastline. While much of the country has been experiencing a brutal heat wave with record temperatures, the Bureau of Meteorology said the monsoonal conditions will not be easing anytime soon, with thunderstorms and rain forecast for the rest of the week.

Daily life disrupted as record-breaking floods hit northeast Australia

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Delhi and Gurgaon were also hit by hail.&nbsp;

As usually happens, the rains also led to traffic snarls.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Rain and hailstorm lashes Delhi's Subash Nagar <a href="https://t.co/lOtiWXJqzB">pic.twitter.com/lOtiWXJqzB</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Haryana: Rainfall and hailstorm lashes Gurugram. <a href="https://t.co/mLd5LpJVO9">pic.twitter.com/mLd5LpJVO9</a>
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Heavy rains in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> leads to traffic congestion in parts of the national capital; Visuals from IP Estate area <a href="https://t.co/8hP9qOgELe">pic.twitter.com/8hP9qOgELe</a>
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The Met Department had earlier predicted cloudy skies with light rains, and a minimum and maximum temperature of about 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively.&nbsp;

The Met had also warned of “another Western Disturbance" which will affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon.

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon. On Tuesday, Delhi and Gurgaon were also hit by hail. As usually happens, the rains also led to traffic snarls. #WATCH Rain and hailstorm lashes Delhi's Subash Nagar pic.twitter.com/lOtiWXJqzB — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × #WATCH Haryana: Rainfall and hailstorm lashes Gurugram. pic.twitter.com/mLd5LpJVO9 — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × Heavy rains in #Delhi leads to traffic congestion in parts of the national capital; Visuals from IP Estate area pic.twitter.com/8hP9qOgELe — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × The Met Department had earlier predicted cloudy skies with light rains, and a minimum and maximum temperature of about 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The Met had also warned of “another Western Disturbance" which will affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi hit by rain & hail Tuesday morning, trafffic snarls follow

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle.

There will gusty winds through the day with the minimum and maximum temperature likely to be around 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The capital and its neighbouring areas have been witnessing a sudden spell of rains accompanied by thundershowers post-Monday afternoon. The showers continued during evening and night leading to a drop in temperature.

“Another Western Disturbance would affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards,” warned the IMD.

Delhi received the wet spell on Monday due to western disturbances, said the IMD. On Monday, the national capital received rains, a day after recording the warmest January day since 2012 on Sunday.

The maximum temperature settled at 28.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday, seven notches above the season's average.

The prevailing situation is a result of active western disturbance, the IMD said.

On Monday, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum was 20 degrees Celsius.

"Generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rainfall at most places and isolated thunderstorm activity accompanied with strong surface winds most likely during January 21 and 22," the weather department said.

The sudden spell of showers on Monday led to a slow movement in traffic.

People returning home from work had to witness slow traffic movement.

The Safdarjung observatory recorded 1.2 mm rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, while Palam recorded 2.8mm, Lodhi Road 0.8mm, Ridge area 0.6mm and Ayanagar 0.6mm rainfall respectively.

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle.

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle. There will gusty winds through the day with the minimum and maximum temperature likely to be around 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The capital and its neighbouring areas have been witnessing a sudden spell of rains accompanied by thundershowers post-Monday afternoon. The showers continued during evening and night leading to a drop in temperature. “Another Western Disturbance would affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards,” warned the IMD. Delhi received the wet spell on Monday due to western disturbances, said the IMD. On Monday, the national capital received rains, a day after recording the warmest January day since 2012 on Sunday. The maximum temperature settled at 28.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday, seven notches above the season's average. The prevailing situation is a result of active western disturbance, the IMD said. On Monday, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum was 20 degrees Celsius. "Generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rainfall at most places and isolated thunderstorm activity accompanied with strong surface winds most likely during January 21 and 22," the weather department said. The sudden spell of showers on Monday led to a slow movement in traffic. People returning home from work had to witness slow traffic movement. The Safdarjung observatory recorded 1.2 mm rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, while Palam recorded 2.8mm, Lodhi Road 0.8mm, Ridge area 0.6mm and Ayanagar 0.6mm rainfall respectively.

Delhi to witness another spell of rain today

Fresh snowfall in Kashmir, rains lash plains

A light downpour that hit some areas of the national capital and its adjoining regions failed to improve the overall air quality index on Monday.

Delhi breathed uneasily as the Air Quality Index (AQI) at Mathura Road was docking at 340 in the morning with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5.&nbsp;

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 372 while in Pitampura area it dipped to 'very poor' category at 385.

The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the category of poor.&nbsp;300-400 is considered as `very poor` and range between 401-500 falls under the category as 'hazardous'.

Furthermore, AQI near Pusa Road, Airport Terminal 3 and Chandni Chowk stood at 304, 319 and 307 respectively. The haze and fog will continue to persist during the early mornings and late evenings for the next couple of days.

Due to the foggy weather, at least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-flights-delayed-due-to-fog-at-delhi-airport-over-10-trains-running-late-188684">13 trains were rescheduled</a> after getting delayed by at least 2 hours.

The trains — Kaifiyat Express, Poorva Express, Magadh Express, and Rewa-Anand Vihar Superfast Express were delayed by 2 hours each.

Owing to low visibility, the railways delayed Gaya Anand Vihar Garib Rath Express, Brahmaputra Mail Express, Swatantra Senani Superfast Express and Purushottam Express by 3 hours, 5 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours and 4.30 hours respectively.

Today, the minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in Delhi was 8 degree Celsius and 19 degree Celsius. The humidity in the region throughout the day will oscillate between 95 per cent to 97 per cent, said India Meteorological Department.

As per the Skymet Weather, a private weather forecasting agency, from today onwards dense to very dense fog is expected to make an appearance over Northern Plains.&nbsp;

The intensity of fog during that time will be much more and visibility may drop down to zero. The reason for foggy mornings will be attributed to the scattered rainfall in the region.

Delhi breathed uneasily as the Air Quality Index (AQI) at Mathura Road was docking at 340 in the morning with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5.

A light downpour that hit some areas of the national capital and its adjoining regions failed to improve the overall air quality index on Monday. Delhi breathed uneasily as the Air Quality Index (AQI) at Mathura Road was docking at 340 in the morning with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 372 while in Pitampura area it dipped to 'very poor' category at 385. The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the category of poor. 300-400 is considered as `very poor` and range between 401-500 falls under the category as 'hazardous'. Furthermore, AQI near Pusa Road, Airport Terminal 3 and Chandni Chowk stood at 304, 319 and 307 respectively. The haze and fog will continue to persist during the early mornings and late evenings for the next couple of days. Due to the foggy weather, at least 13 trains were rescheduled after getting delayed by at least 2 hours. The trains — Kaifiyat Express, Poorva Express, Magadh Express, and Rewa-Anand Vihar Superfast Express were delayed by 2 hours each. Owing to low visibility, the railways delayed Gaya Anand Vihar Garib Rath Express, Brahmaputra Mail Express, Swatantra Senani Superfast Express and Purushottam Express by 3 hours, 5 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours and 4.30 hours respectively. Today, the minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in Delhi was 8 degree Celsius and 19 degree Celsius. The humidity in the region throughout the day will oscillate between 95 per cent to 97 per cent, said India Meteorological Department. As per the Skymet Weather, a private weather forecasting agency, from today onwards dense to very dense fog is expected to make an appearance over Northern Plains. The intensity of fog during that time will be much more and visibility may drop down to zero. The reason for foggy mornings will be attributed to the scattered rainfall in the region.

Delhi: Air quality nosedives to 'very poor', no respite even after rain

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital.

Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius.

As per the MET office, the minimum temperature during the day is expected to dip to 6 degrees Celcius, while the maximum temperature will be 19 degrees Celcius.

As chilly winds engulf the national capital, it has become an ordeal for the homeless. Scores of people have taken refuge at night shelters as the cold wave is set to intensify in the coming days.

Apart from the onset of severe winter, the national capital is also reeling under poor air quality levels. According to Skymet, pollution levels are in 'severely poor'&nbsp;category at present.

However, after the spell of rain and thundershower, the situation is expected to improve marginally, with pollution levels in the 'moderate'&nbsp;to 'poor'&nbsp;category. Last week, several trains arriving and departing from Delhi were delayed owing to the dense fog blanketing northern India. As many as 15 trains were delayed by over three hours.

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has advised individuals to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

"Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed. Avoid burning of wood, candles or incense. Keep the room clean - don't vacuum. Do wet mopping to reduce dust," read an advisory from the state-run agency.

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital. Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius.

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital. Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius. As per the MET office, the minimum temperature during the day is expected to dip to 6 degrees Celcius, while the maximum temperature will be 19 degrees Celcius. As chilly winds engulf the national capital, it has become an ordeal for the homeless. Scores of people have taken refuge at night shelters as the cold wave is set to intensify in the coming days. Apart from the onset of severe winter, the national capital is also reeling under poor air quality levels. According to Skymet, pollution levels are in 'severely poor' category at present. However, after the spell of rain and thundershower, the situation is expected to improve marginally, with pollution levels in the 'moderate' to 'poor' category. Last week, several trains arriving and departing from Delhi were delayed owing to the dense fog blanketing northern India. As many as 15 trains were delayed by over three hours. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has advised individuals to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. "Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed. Avoid burning of wood, candles or incense. Keep the room clean - don't vacuum. Do wet mopping to reduce dust," read an advisory from the state-run agency.

Delhi witnesses scattered spell of rain, air quality remains 'poor'

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today.&nbsp;

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day as they slumped to 236 for the loss of six wickets when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

The Virat Kohli-led side only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch.

Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today.

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today. Australia's batting woes returned on the third day as they slumped to 236 for the loss of six wickets when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared. The Virat Kohli-led side only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch. Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

IND vs AUS: Bad light, rain delay start on day 4; Australia 236/6

Rain washed out the fifth and final day's play of the first test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Wednesday after the visitors had virtually assured themselves of a draw with a battling second innings performance on the fourth day.

Kusal Mendis was 141 not out and former captain Angelo Mathews on 120 with their side 287 for three in their second innings, still nine runs shy of New Zealand's mammoth first innings of 578.

Bad weather had been forecast to interrupt most of Wednesday's final day and light rain delayed the start of play for 90 minutes until 12:30 p.m. (2330 GMT).

The visitors resumed on 259 for three and Mendis and Mathews were rarely troubled before a light shower forced them from the field just ahead of the scheduled lunch break of 1:30 p.m.

A southerly change during lunch, however, brought heavy showers across the ground and umpires Rod Tucker and Michael Gough had little option but to abandon play just before 4 p.m.

New Zealand had dominated the first three days of the match, dismissing Sri Lanka for 282 early on the second day, then batted themselves into a match-winning position with Tom Latham's unbeaten 264 driving them to their big total.

Tim Southee and Trent Boult reduced the visitors to 13 for three in their second innings late on the third day before Mathews and Mendis stonewalled New Zealand's pursuit for victory.

The pair batted throughout the entire fourth day, the first time a wicket had not fallen on a complete day's play in test cricket in more than a decade.

The draw ensures that New Zealand can no longer move to second in the world test rankings at the conclusion of the two-match series.

The second game begins on Dec. 26 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Rain washed out the fifth and final day's play of the first test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Wednesday after the visitors had virtually assured themselves of a draw with a battling second innings performance on the fourth day.

Rain washed out the fifth and final day's play of the first test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Wednesday after the visitors had virtually assured themselves of a draw with a battling second innings performance on the fourth day. Kusal Mendis was 141 not out and former captain Angelo Mathews on 120 with their side 287 for three in their second innings, still nine runs shy of New Zealand's mammoth first innings of 578. Bad weather had been forecast to interrupt most of Wednesday's final day and light rain delayed the start of play for 90 minutes until 12:30 p.m. (2330 GMT). The visitors resumed on 259 for three and Mendis and Mathews were rarely troubled before a light shower forced them from the field just ahead of the scheduled lunch break of 1:30 p.m. A southerly change during lunch, however, brought heavy showers across the ground and umpires Rod Tucker and Michael Gough had little option but to abandon play just before 4 p.m. New Zealand had dominated the first three days of the match, dismissing Sri Lanka for 282 early on the second day, then batted themselves into a match-winning position with Tom Latham's unbeaten 264 driving them to their big total. Tim Southee and Trent Boult reduced the visitors to 13 for three in their second innings late on the third day before Mathews and Mendis stonewalled New Zealand's pursuit for victory. The pair batted throughout the entire fourth day, the first time a wicket had not fallen on a complete day's play in test cricket in more than a decade. The draw ensures that New Zealand can no longer move to second in the world test rankings at the conclusion of the two-match series. The second game begins on Dec. 26 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Rain washes out final day in New Zealand as Sri Lanka hold on

At least two people died in flooding in northern Cyprus, Turkish Cypriot media reported on Thursday, as hail and rain hammered the island.

Turkish Cypriot media said the victims' car was swept away during a deluge late Wednesday. Cyprus residents have reported virtually uninterrupted rain since early Tuesday, with some saying it was the heaviest in memory.

Flash flooding from an isolated downpour is not uncommon in Cyprus, but sustained floods are rare. Further bad weather was expected on Thursday.

"In minutes, it's gone from beautiful sunshine to freezing cold with rumbles of thunder in the distance. I'm not looking forward to this," one northern Cyprus resident said.

People were sewing sandbags to prevent water seeping through window seals and under doors, she said.

Social media images showed cars swept away into the sea, submerged in flood water and water gushing through homes. &nbsp;

Normally dry rivers burst their banks, causing damage in the Cypriot capital, Nicosia, and forcing the partial closure of a motorway linking the city to Kyrenia, a historic harbour town on the island’s northern coast. Many schools were shut.

"I have never seen anything like it," said Devin Reid, 25, a resident of northern Nicosia. "Our front street looked like a river."

At least two people died in flooding in northern Cyprus, Turkish Cypriot media reported on Thursday, as hail and rain hammered the island. Turkish Cypriot media said the victims' car was swept away during a deluge late Wednesday.

At least two people died in flooding in northern Cyprus, Turkish Cypriot media reported on Thursday, as hail and rain hammered the island. Turkish Cypriot media said the victims' car was swept away during a deluge late Wednesday. Cyprus residents have reported virtually uninterrupted rain since early Tuesday, with some saying it was the heaviest in memory. Flash flooding from an isolated downpour is not uncommon in Cyprus, but sustained floods are rare. Further bad weather was expected on Thursday. "In minutes, it's gone from beautiful sunshine to freezing cold with rumbles of thunder in the distance. I'm not looking forward to this," one northern Cyprus resident said. People were sewing sandbags to prevent water seeping through window seals and under doors, she said. Social media images showed cars swept away into the sea, submerged in flood water and water gushing through homes. Normally dry rivers burst their banks, causing damage in the Cypriot capital, Nicosia, and forcing the partial closure of a motorway linking the city to Kyrenia, a historic harbour town on the island’s northern coast. Many schools were shut. "I have never seen anything like it," said Devin Reid, 25, a resident of northern Nicosia. "Our front street looked like a river."

At least two dead as rain and floods lash Cyprus

Heavy rains wreak havoc in California

More rain is forecast for northern California over the weekend, boosting firefighters` efforts to extinguish the last of the wildfires that have raged there for two weeks, but raises the risk of flash floods and landslides in the scorched Sierra Nevada foothills.

The wet weather is also expected to complicate efforts to locate victims of what is called the Camp Fire, which virtually obliterated the city of Paradise, 175 miles (280 km) northeast of San Francisco, on November 8.

Between 1 to 3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) of rain is expected to fall between Friday and Sunday, adding to the 3 inches that already fell this week, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.&nbsp;

"Flash floods and debris flows will be a particular threat in the wildfire burn areas," the NWS said in a notice warning of the risk of flash floods through late Friday afternoon. "Heavy rainfall at times is possible over the burn areas with the greatest threat expected today."

That risk is low for thousands of evacuees who have fled the Camp Fire and are sheltering outside areas prone to mudslides.&nbsp;

At least 84 people died in the Camp Fire which started more than two weeks ago, making it one of the deadliest US wildfires in the last 100 years. Paradise was a popular destination for retirees and two-thirds of the victims named so far were aged over 65.

As many as 560 people are still unaccounted for. That number has fluctuated widely over the past week, hitting a high of more than 1,200 over last weekend.

The fire was 95 per cent contained across 154,000 acres, officials said late Thursday.

"All containment lines continued to hold throughout the day with the rain assisting in extinguishing hot spots and smoldering fire," the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said late Thursday.

More than 800 volunteers and police officers spent the Thanksgiving holiday combing through the wreckage, searching for the remains of victims killed in the blaze as the ongoing rains looked set to complicate their work.

Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea has said the rain would make going through debris more difficult, but he was less concerned about remains washing away than the headaches posed by mud.

He has also warned that as all that remains of victims may be "very small bone fragments," some of them may never be found.

The county has crews working around the clock laying sand bags and bags of hay to prevent debris from burnt homes being washed into streams and polluting the water supply.

"We`re doing everything we can to prepare for this," Butte County assistant director for public works Radley Ott told KRCR TV.

Hundreds of people forced to flee Paradise spent Thanksgiving in warehouses in the nearby city of Chico. Celebrity chef Jose Andres was among the volunteers bringing some festive cheer by cooking Thanksgiving meals for evacuees.

The cause of the Camp Fire, which destroyed more than 13,500 homes, remains under investigation.

A separate California wildfire - the Woolsey Fire, which killed three people and threatened the wealthy beachfront enclave of Malibu near Los Angeles - was declared 100-percent contained on Wednesday.

More rain is forecast for northern California over the weekend, boosting firefighters` efforts to extinguish the last of the wildfires that have raged there for two weeks, but raises the risk of flash floods and landslides in the scorched Sierra Nevada foothills.

More rain is forecast for northern California over the weekend, boosting firefighters` efforts to extinguish the last of the wildfires that have raged there for two weeks, but raises the risk of flash floods and landslides in the scorched Sierra Nevada foothills. The wet weather is also expected to complicate efforts to locate victims of what is called the Camp Fire, which virtually obliterated the city of Paradise, 175 miles (280 km) northeast of San Francisco, on November 8. Between 1 to 3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) of rain is expected to fall between Friday and Sunday, adding to the 3 inches that already fell this week, the National Weather Service (NWS) said. "Flash floods and debris flows will be a particular threat in the wildfire burn areas," the NWS said in a notice warning of the risk of flash floods through late Friday afternoon. "Heavy rainfall at times is possible over the burn areas with the greatest threat expected today." That risk is low for thousands of evacuees who have fled the Camp Fire and are sheltering outside areas prone to mudslides. At least 84 people died in the Camp Fire which started more than two weeks ago, making it one of the deadliest US wildfires in the last 100 years. Paradise was a popular destination for retirees and two-thirds of the victims named so far were aged over 65. As many as 560 people are still unaccounted for. That number has fluctuated widely over the past week, hitting a high of more than 1,200 over last weekend. The fire was 95 per cent contained across 154,000 acres, officials said late Thursday. "All containment lines continued to hold throughout the day with the rain assisting in extinguishing hot spots and smoldering fire," the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said late Thursday. More than 800 volunteers and police officers spent the Thanksgiving holiday combing through the wreckage, searching for the remains of victims killed in the blaze as the ongoing rains looked set to complicate their work. Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea has said the rain would make going through debris more difficult, but he was less concerned about remains washing away than the headaches posed by mud. He has also warned that as all that remains of victims may be "very small bone fragments," some of them may never be found. The county has crews working around the clock laying sand bags and bags of hay to prevent debris from burnt homes being washed into streams and polluting the water supply. "We`re doing everything we can to prepare for this," Butte County assistant director for public works Radley Ott told KRCR TV. Hundreds of people forced to flee Paradise spent Thanksgiving in warehouses in the nearby city of Chico. Celebrity chef Jose Andres was among the volunteers bringing some festive cheer by cooking Thanksgiving meals for evacuees. The cause of the Camp Fire, which destroyed more than 13,500 homes, remains under investigation. A separate California wildfire - the Woolsey Fire, which killed three people and threatened the wealthy beachfront enclave of Malibu near Los Angeles - was declared 100-percent contained on Wednesday.

Rain helps douse California fires, but raises landslide risk

Thousands of people displaced by California's most destructive wildfire, including hundreds living in tents and cars, face heavy rains next week that could trigger dangerous floods and mudslides, while helping douse the flames.

At least 300 people who fled the Camp Fire were sheltering on Friday in the flood-prone parking lot of a Walmart in Chico, about 15 miles (24 km) west of where the blaze consumed the mountain town of Paradise on November&nbsp;8.

More than 1,000 are missing, according to police. The remains of at least 71 people have been identified so far.

A rain storm is forecast to hit next week and so authorities are asking people to leave the Walmart lot by Sunday afternoon, said Bryan May, a spokesman for the California Office of Emergency Services.

Hillsides that have been scorched by a wildfire are at risk for mudslides when it rains, experts say. The flames burn away vegetation that holds the soil in place and bake a waxy layer into the earth that prevents water from sinking more than a few inches into the ground.

Authorities say they have enough shelter space to provide a bed for everyone who wants one, but they acknowledge challenges ahead in finding more long-term housing for the displaced.

May said it was not clear exactly how many people are in need of housing, but at the height of the Camp Fire authorities had ordered more than 52,000 people to evacuate.

A survey found only 100 housing units available for rent in all of Butte County, where the fire has been burning, May said.

Already, more than 1,100 people are bunking at shelters in the area, according to the Red Cross, and countless more are staying with friends and family.

The fire forced caregiver Robin Tompkins, 43, and her family from their home in the town of Magalia, north of Paradise. Friends let them stay for a week, but now the family needs to find other accommodation, she said at an evacuee relief station in the Chico Walmart parking lot.

Her husband Timothy, who works as a cook at a Chico cafe, was frustrated by the lack of information about how long he might be kept from returning to Magalia.

"I keep hearing different things: a month, four months, a year. We just want to get home," he said.

Randy Greb, 61, was camping in a tent in the parking lot after his home in Paradise was destroyed.

"I lost everything. I've got the clothes I got, but people have been nice and really helping us," Greb said. "Everybody has been doing their best."

The Walmart tent village is the largest of several outdoor encampments of refugees from the Camp Fire.

Some displaced people prefer to remain outdoors because they want to stay with their pets, which many shelters say they cannot accept, or are concerned about losing their privacy, May said.

But authorities are encouraging them to camp near a shelter so they can access services for hygiene and other needs, such as free diapers and Clorox wipes.

Given the shortage of suitable housing, attention has turned to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

It has said that it is working with state and local officials to evaluate options, and is considering using travel trailers to house some of the displaced.

Last year, after a deadly wildfire destroyed hundreds of homes in the San Francisco Bay Area town of Santa Rosa, FEMA trailers were used to house some of the displaced.

Among the thousands who have applied for help from FEMA is Linda Harned, 63, a retired caregiver who lost the home that she shared with her husband and several relatives in Magalia.

"I'm depressed and upset," Harned said at the relief station outside the Walmart in Chico. "It's hard. I never knew how much I loved my house."

Thousands of people displaced by California's most destructive wildfire, including hundreds living in tents and cars, face heavy rains next week that could trigger dangerous floods and mudslides, while helping douse the flames.

Thousands of people displaced by California's most destructive wildfire, including hundreds living in tents and cars, face heavy rains next week that could trigger dangerous floods and mudslides, while helping douse the flames. At least 300 people who fled the Camp Fire were sheltering on Friday in the flood-prone parking lot of a Walmart in Chico, about 15 miles (24 km) west of where the blaze consumed the mountain town of Paradise on November 8. More than 1,000 are missing, according to police. The remains of at least 71 people have been identified so far. A rain storm is forecast to hit next week and so authorities are asking people to leave the Walmart lot by Sunday afternoon, said Bryan May, a spokesman for the California Office of Emergency Services. Hillsides that have been scorched by a wildfire are at risk for mudslides when it rains, experts say. The flames burn away vegetation that holds the soil in place and bake a waxy layer into the earth that prevents water from sinking more than a few inches into the ground. Authorities say they have enough shelter space to provide a bed for everyone who wants one, but they acknowledge challenges ahead in finding more long-term housing for the displaced. May said it was not clear exactly how many people are in need of housing, but at the height of the Camp Fire authorities had ordered more than 52,000 people to evacuate. A survey found only 100 housing units available for rent in all of Butte County, where the fire has been burning, May said. Already, more than 1,100 people are bunking at shelters in the area, according to the Red Cross, and countless more are staying with friends and family. The fire forced caregiver Robin Tompkins, 43, and her family from their home in the town of Magalia, north of Paradise. Friends let them stay for a week, but now the family needs to find other accommodation, she said at an evacuee relief station in the Chico Walmart parking lot. Her husband Timothy, who works as a cook at a Chico cafe, was frustrated by the lack of information about how long he might be kept from returning to Magalia. "I keep hearing different things: a month, four months, a year. We just want to get home," he said. Randy Greb, 61, was camping in a tent in the parking lot after his home in Paradise was destroyed. "I lost everything. I've got the clothes I got, but people have been nice and really helping us," Greb said. "Everybody has been doing their best." The Walmart tent village is the largest of several outdoor encampments of refugees from the Camp Fire. Some displaced people prefer to remain outdoors because they want to stay with their pets, which many shelters say they cannot accept, or are concerned about losing their privacy, May said. But authorities are encouraging them to camp near a shelter so they can access services for hygiene and other needs, such as free diapers and Clorox wipes. Given the shortage of suitable housing, attention has turned to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It has said that it is working with state and local officials to evaluate options, and is considering using travel trailers to house some of the displaced. Last year, after a deadly wildfire destroyed hundreds of homes in the San Francisco Bay Area town of Santa Rosa, FEMA trailers were used to house some of the displaced. Among the thousands who have applied for help from FEMA is Linda Harned, 63, a retired caregiver who lost the home that she shared with her husband and several relatives in Magalia. "I'm depressed and upset," Harned said at the relief station outside the Walmart in Chico. "It's hard. I never knew how much I loved my house."

Rain storms could bring more misery for California fire evacuees

Floods killed 12 people on the island of Sicily, including nine members of a single family, pushing Italy's week-long storm toll beyond 30, rescuers said Sunday.

After a river burst its banks, the bodies of the family including children aged one, three and 15 were discovered in the coastal town of Casteldaccia east of the capital Palermo.

Rescue services said the house where they were spending the weekend was submerged in water and mud. The other victims' ages ranged from 32 to 65.

Three family members managed to escape, one by climbing a tree where he stayed for more than two hours, the Agi news agency reported.

"I lost everything, I have nothing left, just my daughter," one of the survivors, 35-year-old Giuseppe Giordano, told journalists.

His wife, two other children, his parents, brother, and sister, his nephew and the boy's grandmother all died, he said.

After flying over Casteldaccia on Sunday, Sicilian prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio described scenes of "total disaster".

Officials have opened an investigation to determine whether houses built near the river had complied with safety norms.

In a separate incident in Sicily, a 44-year-old man was found dead in his car near Vicari, also in the Palermo region.

He had been trying to reach a service station, where he was the manager, to help a colleague trapped there. A 20-year-old passenger in the car with him is still missing.

Rescue workers are also searching for a doctor, 40, forced by the storms to abandon his car on the road near the town of Corleone after trying to drive to work at the hospital there.

Two other people, a man and a woman, died after their rental car was swept away by a torrent in the region of Agrigente, rescuers said.

Violent winds and strong rain had killed at least 20 other people this week around Italy, especially in the north.

Two were reported killed on Friday, including a 62-year-old Germany tourist struck by lightning in Sardinia.

Six regions remain on high alert for storms.

The severe weather has caused massive damage and disruption. Trees in sprawling mountainside forests in the northeast of the country were flattened like matchsticks by violent winds.

"It's like after an earthquake," said the governor of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia. "Thousands of hectares of forest were razed to the ground, as if by a giant electric saw."

On Sunday, after flying over the area with Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, Zaia said the storms had destroyed 100,000 hectares (250,000 acres) of pine forest in all.

Salvini posted photos of the devastation in a series of tweets Sunday after also flying over the Alpine town of Belluno.

"We need 40 billion euros ($45.5 billion) to secure the national territory," he said.

He pledged to collect and spend that sum but, in a barbed aside to the European Union, said he hoped his plans would not provoke overspending complaints from Brussels.

Europe has objected to Italy's proposed budget, which it says will worsen the country's already huge deficit.

The canal city of Venice, on Italy's northeast coast, has also experienced some of its worst flooding ever, and withstood winds of up to 180 kilometres an hour (110 miles an hour).

The picturesque fishing village of Portofino near Genoa, a holiday resort on the Italian riviera, was reachable only by sea after the main road collapsed.&nbsp;

Floods in Sicily have closed many roads this week, and mayors ordered schools, public parks and underpasses shut.

On Sunday, troops were deployed to check the condition of the main roads on the Mediterranean island.&nbsp;

Italy's civil protection agency has described the weather lashing the country this week as "one of the most complex meteorological situations of the past 50 to 60 years".

Floods killed 12 people on the island of Sicily, including nine members of a single family, pushing Italy's week-long storm toll beyond 30, rescuers said Sunday.

Floods killed 12 people on the island of Sicily, including nine members of a single family, pushing Italy's week-long storm toll beyond 30, rescuers said Sunday. After a river burst its banks, the bodies of the family including children aged one, three and 15 were discovered in the coastal town of Casteldaccia east of the capital Palermo. Rescue services said the house where they were spending the weekend was submerged in water and mud. The other victims' ages ranged from 32 to 65. Three family members managed to escape, one by climbing a tree where he stayed for more than two hours, the Agi news agency reported. "I lost everything, I have nothing left, just my daughter," one of the survivors, 35-year-old Giuseppe Giordano, told journalists. His wife, two other children, his parents, brother, and sister, his nephew and the boy's grandmother all died, he said. After flying over Casteldaccia on Sunday, Sicilian prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio described scenes of "total disaster". Officials have opened an investigation to determine whether houses built near the river had complied with safety norms. In a separate incident in Sicily, a 44-year-old man was found dead in his car near Vicari, also in the Palermo region. He had been trying to reach a service station, where he was the manager, to help a colleague trapped there. A 20-year-old passenger in the car with him is still missing. Rescue workers are also searching for a doctor, 40, forced by the storms to abandon his car on the road near the town of Corleone after trying to drive to work at the hospital there. Two other people, a man and a woman, died after their rental car was swept away by a torrent in the region of Agrigente, rescuers said. Violent winds and strong rain had killed at least 20 other people this week around Italy, especially in the north. Two were reported killed on Friday, including a 62-year-old Germany tourist struck by lightning in Sardinia. Six regions remain on high alert for storms. The severe weather has caused massive damage and disruption. Trees in sprawling mountainside forests in the northeast of the country were flattened like matchsticks by violent winds. "It's like after an earthquake," said the governor of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia. "Thousands of hectares of forest were razed to the ground, as if by a giant electric saw." On Sunday, after flying over the area with Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, Zaia said the storms had destroyed 100,000 hectares (250,000 acres) of pine forest in all. Salvini posted photos of the devastation in a series of tweets Sunday after also flying over the Alpine town of Belluno. "We need 40 billion euros ($45.5 billion) to secure the national territory," he said. He pledged to collect and spend that sum but, in a barbed aside to the European Union, said he hoped his plans would not provoke overspending complaints from Brussels. Europe has objected to Italy's proposed budget, which it says will worsen the country's already huge deficit. The canal city of Venice, on Italy's northeast coast, has also experienced some of its worst flooding ever, and withstood winds of up to 180 kilometres an hour (110 miles an hour). The picturesque fishing village of Portofino near Genoa, a holiday resort on the Italian riviera, was reachable only by sea after the main road collapsed. Floods in Sicily have closed many roads this week, and mayors ordered schools, public parks and underpasses shut. On Sunday, troops were deployed to check the condition of the main roads on the Mediterranean island. Italy's civil protection agency has described the weather lashing the country this week as "one of the most complex meteorological situations of the past 50 to 60 years".

'Total disaster' as Italy storms kill at least 30

Fierce winds and rains have killed at least 20 people in Italy this week and razed thousands of hectares of forest in the country's devastated north, officials said.

An 87-year-old woman and a 62-year-old German tourist were killed Friday after being struck by lightning in Sardinia.

It brings to 20 the number of people killed by bad weather in Italy since the start of the week, according to the country's civil protection agency, with meteorologists predicting further wind and rain throughout the weekend.

Trees covering the mountainsides in the Dolomites range were reduced to matchsticks, flattened by winds that tore through the Veneto region on Thursday.

"It's like after an earthquake," Veneto governor Luca Zaia said. "Thousands of hectares of forest were razed to the ground, as if by a giant electric saw." In addition, 160,000 people in the region were left without electricity, Zaia said, adding that parts of the Dolomites were "reduced to looking like the surface of the moon".

"We've been brought to our knees," the politician said.

The storms in northern Italy on Thursday killed two pensioners aged 74 and 73 when a tree fell on their car in the Aosta Valley. Another person fell into a river in the Brescia region and was dragged under by the current.

In the Alto Adige region, an 81-year-old died after falling off the damaged roof of his Alpine cottage, while a 53-year-old whose car was hit by a falling tree during bad weather died on Monday.

Several towns in the province of Belluno were cut off after a landslide damaged a mountain road and repair efforts were hampered by the insistent heavy rains.

Floods in Sicily have closed many roads and mayors ordered schools, public parks, and underpasses shut.

The picturesque fishing village of Portofino near Genoa, a famed holiday resort on the Italian riviera, was only reachable by sea after the main road collapsed and an emergency path opened to let residents out was deemed too dangerous.

"It won't be easy or quick but we count on returning Portofino next summer to the millions of tourists who come to visit it," regional governor Giovanni Toti said.

The Genoa region alone had suffered tens of millions of euros' worth of damage -- a price tag that could rise to hundreds of millions in the long term, he added.

Italy's civil protection agency described the weather lashing Italy this week as "one of the most complex meteorological situations of the past 50 to 60 years".

Venice was inundated by near-record flooding on Monday, ferocious storms drove high winds reaching up to 180 kilometres (110 miles) an hour, and hundreds of trees were torn up by their roots in the Italian capital.

Fierce winds and rains have killed at least 20 people in Italy this week and razed thousands of hectares of forest in the country's devastated north, officials said.

Fierce winds and rains have killed at least 20 people in Italy this week and razed thousands of hectares of forest in the country's devastated north, officials said. An 87-year-old woman and a 62-year-old German tourist were killed Friday after being struck by lightning in Sardinia. It brings to 20 the number of people killed by bad weather in Italy since the start of the week, according to the country's civil protection agency, with meteorologists predicting further wind and rain throughout the weekend. Trees covering the mountainsides in the Dolomites range were reduced to matchsticks, flattened by winds that tore through the Veneto region on Thursday. "It's like after an earthquake," Veneto governor Luca Zaia said. "Thousands of hectares of forest were razed to the ground, as if by a giant electric saw." In addition, 160,000 people in the region were left without electricity, Zaia said, adding that parts of the Dolomites were "reduced to looking like the surface of the moon". "We've been brought to our knees," the politician said. The storms in northern Italy on Thursday killed two pensioners aged 74 and 73 when a tree fell on their car in the Aosta Valley. Another person fell into a river in the Brescia region and was dragged under by the current. In the Alto Adige region, an 81-year-old died after falling off the damaged roof of his Alpine cottage, while a 53-year-old whose car was hit by a falling tree during bad weather died on Monday. Several towns in the province of Belluno were cut off after a landslide damaged a mountain road and repair efforts were hampered by the insistent heavy rains. Floods in Sicily have closed many roads and mayors ordered schools, public parks, and underpasses shut. The picturesque fishing village of Portofino near Genoa, a famed holiday resort on the Italian riviera, was only reachable by sea after the main road collapsed and an emergency path opened to let residents out was deemed too dangerous. "It won't be easy or quick but we count on returning Portofino next summer to the millions of tourists who come to visit it," regional governor Giovanni Toti said. The Genoa region alone had suffered tens of millions of euros' worth of damage -- a price tag that could rise to hundreds of millions in the long term, he added. Italy's civil protection agency described the weather lashing Italy this week as "one of the most complex meteorological situations of the past 50 to 60 years". Venice was inundated by near-record flooding on Monday, ferocious storms drove high winds reaching up to 180 kilometres (110 miles) an hour, and hundreds of trees were torn up by their roots in the Italian capital.

Fierce winds raze forests in storm-hit Italy, kills 20 this week

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday assured Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh of all support from the Centre in tackling the flood situation arising in the state due to incessant rains.

Prime Minister spoke with Singh on phone and enquired about the flood situation in the state, and assured him of all possible help in mitigating the situation arising out of floods and rains, according to an official spokesperson.

Briefing the Prime Minister, the Punjab Chief Minister said that he had visited the affected districts of Kapurthala and Tarn Taran and there had been significant damage to crops in areas around the Beas River.

Singh further stated that the process of the special girdawari, ordered by him to assess the losses, will commence as soon as the waters recede.

He thanked Prime Minister Modi for his assurance and said that he would apprise him of the situation once the girdawai process is completed.

Earlier today, during his visit to Sultanpur Lodhi, the Chief Minister had stated that he would be approaching the Centre for funds for construction of spurs in the River Beas to prevent floods in the future.

He had said that these spurs were necessary for protecting the river banks by keeping the flow of water away.

The chief minister had also stated that he would be meeting Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to seek replacement of the existing pontoon bridges in the district with permanent ones.

Three days of heavy downpour in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir have swelled up the Ravi, Beas and Sutlej rivers in Punjab.

Also, the water levels further escalated in Jalandhar after 56,000 cusecs of water were released from Ropar in Sutlej.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday assured Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh of all support from the Centre in tackling the flood situation arising in the state due to incessant rains.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday assured Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh of all support from the Centre in tackling the flood situation arising in the state due to incessant rains. Prime Minister spoke with Singh on phone and enquired about the flood situation in the state, and assured him of all possible help in mitigating the situation arising out of floods and rains, according to an official spokesperson. Briefing the Prime Minister, the Punjab Chief Minister said that he had visited the affected districts of Kapurthala and Tarn Taran and there had been significant damage to crops in areas around the Beas River. Singh further stated that the process of the special girdawari, ordered by him to assess the losses, will commence as soon as the waters recede. He thanked Prime Minister Modi for his assurance and said that he would apprise him of the situation once the girdawai process is completed. Earlier today, during his visit to Sultanpur Lodhi, the Chief Minister had stated that he would be approaching the Centre for funds for construction of spurs in the River Beas to prevent floods in the future. He had said that these spurs were necessary for protecting the river banks by keeping the flow of water away. The chief minister had also stated that he would be meeting Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to seek replacement of the existing pontoon bridges in the district with permanent ones. Three days of heavy downpour in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir have swelled up the Ravi, Beas and Sutlej rivers in Punjab. Also, the water levels further escalated in Jalandhar after 56,000 cusecs of water were released from Ropar in Sutlej.

PM Modi assures support to flood-hit Punjab

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Tuesday confirmed that a group of 50 missing trekkers has been located and is safe in Sissu area of Lahul-Spiti, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the group included students from IIT Roorkee who had gone trekking in Himachal Pradesh's mountainous Lahaul and Spiti district and were stranded due to bad weather.

The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to return to Manali.&nbsp;

Himachal Pradesh has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-pradesh-five-dead-rains-schools-remain-closed-three-districts-today-167505">bearing the brunt of torrential rainfall</a> over the last few days.&nbsp;

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The group of 50 trekkers which includes IIT Roorkee students are safe in Sissu area of Lahul-Spiti: Himachal Pradesh CM Jai Ram Thakur <a href="https://t.co/BDpqp65xGz">pic.twitter.com/BDpqp65xGz</a>
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Five people died and many were injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Four people, including a girl, died in Kullu, while a man died in Kangra district as heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides in many parts of the state Monday.

Schools have been directed to remain closed in Kangra, Kullu and Hamirpur districts on Tuesday as a precautionary measure.&nbsp;

The MeT department has predicted light to moderate rainfall at scattered places over the mid and the low hills and at isolated places over the higher reaches of the state today, thereafter, the weather would almost be dry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Tuesday confirmed that a group of 50 missing trekkers has been located and is safe in Sissu area of Lahul-Spiti, news agency ANI reported.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Tuesday confirmed that a group of 50 missing trekkers has been located and is safe in Sissu area of Lahul-Spiti, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the group included students from IIT Roorkee who had gone trekking in Himachal Pradesh's mountainous Lahaul and Spiti district and were stranded due to bad weather. The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to return to Manali. Himachal Pradesh has been bearing the brunt of torrential rainfall over the last few days. The group of 50 trekkers which includes IIT Roorkee students are safe in Sissu area of Lahul-Spiti: Himachal Pradesh CM Jai Ram Thakur pic.twitter.com/BDpqp65xGz — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Five people died and many were injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, news agency PTI reported. Four people, including a girl, died in Kullu, while a man died in Kangra district as heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides in many parts of the state Monday. Schools have been directed to remain closed in Kangra, Kullu and Hamirpur districts on Tuesday as a precautionary measure. The MeT department has predicted light to moderate rainfall at scattered places over the mid and the low hills and at isolated places over the higher reaches of the state today, thereafter, the weather would almost be dry. (With inputs from agencies)

Group of 50 stranded trekkers safe in Lahaul-Spiti: Himachal Pradesh CM 

Delhiites woke up to another sunny morning with the minimum temperature settling at 25.9 degrees Celsius, one notch below the season average.

The weatherman has predicted thunderstorm later in the day in the national capital.

According to the meteorological department, the humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 47 per cent.

"There is possibility of thunderstorm in the afternoon or night today. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 43 degrees Celsius," said an official of the department.

Yesterday, the maximum temperature recorded was 43.5 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was recorded at 27.2 degrees Celsius.

The weatherman has predicted thunderstorm later in the day in the national capital

Delhiites woke up to another sunny morning with the minimum temperature settling at 25.9 degrees Celsius, one notch below the season average. The weatherman has predicted thunderstorm later in the day in the national capital. According to the meteorological department, the humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 47 per cent. "There is possibility of thunderstorm in the afternoon or night today. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 43 degrees Celsius," said an official of the department. Yesterday, the maximum temperature recorded was 43.5 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was recorded at 27.2 degrees Celsius.

Delhi: After hottest day of the season; Met predicts rain by Wednesday

Torrential rains and windstorm killed at least 11 people and left 14 others injured today in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region, officials said.

As many as six persons were killed and 16 others injured when the roof of a religious seminary collapsed in the country's northwestern Bajaur agency.

Two persons were killed in Mamond area in rain-related incidents. In Khyber agency, two persons were killed. Several vehicles were swept away in flood.

Officials said that a total of 11 people have been killed and 14 others injured in rain-related incidents.

Authorities and security forces have launched relief and rescue operations.

Authorities and security forces have launched relief and rescue operations

Torrential rains and windstorm killed at least 11 people and left 14 others injured today in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region, officials said. As many as six persons were killed and 16 others injured when the roof of a religious seminary collapsed in the country's northwestern Bajaur agency. Two persons were killed in Mamond area in rain-related incidents. In Khyber agency, two persons were killed. Several vehicles were swept away in flood. Officials said that a total of 11 people have been killed and 14 others injured in rain-related incidents. Authorities and security forces have launched relief and rescue operations.

Torrential rains kill 11 people in Pakistan

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