Heavy monsoon rains in India: Over 300 litres of rain in a short period of time

Heavy monsoon rainfall is forecast across north-west India in the coming days, with New Delhi and surrounding regions expected to be the worst affected.

Meteorologists warn of up to 300 litres of rain per square metre in some areas by Monday, raising the risk of severe flooding on fields and roads.

Several parts of the region have already been battling heavy downpours in recent weeks. The monsoon, a large-scale wind system that shifts direction every six months, is driving this intense spell of rain.

In India, the monsoon is particularly strong, often bringing both relief from heat and challenges of flooding. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow local weather alerts.

In summer, warm and very humid air masses are often pushed against the Himalayan mountains. In combination with a low-pressure zone, known in technical jargon as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITC), this gives rise to heavy showers and thunderclouds.

These hardly move from the spot and often bring considerable amounts of rain.