Severe Hailstorm Lashes Delhi-NCR as IMD Issues Orange Alert

New Delhi, January 28, 2026: A significant wave of meteorological drama has been triggered across the National Capital Region following a sudden and intense hailstorm. In the viral footage, which gained massive traction on January 28, 2026, the familiar streets of Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram are observed being blanketed by layers of white ice. It is noted that the afternoon sky turned an ominous shade of gray before the downpour began, catching thousands of commuters and residents off guard. This dramatic shift in weather has been widely shared as a primary indicator of the erratic climatic patterns affecting Northern India this winter season.

The Impact of the Icy Downpour

The specifics of the storm’s intensity are being meticulously documented by residents as the video continues to accumulate millions of views across social media. It is observed in the viral clips that the hail was accompanied by strong gusty winds, leading to reduced visibility on major expressways and the temporary halting of traffic. It is reported by several local news outlets that significant damage to vehicles and temporary structures was sustained in parts of Gurugram and Noida. The visual of the National Capital looking more like a hill station has provided a striking and grounding narrative on the sheer unpredictability of nature.

Also Read: Baby’s First Lemon Taste Becomes the Internet’s Favorite Moment

IMD Response and the Orange Alert

A massive conversation regarding public safety and disaster preparedness has been ignited by this interaction. It is noted that an “Orange Alert” was officially issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), warning residents of more thundershowers and hailstorms over the next 24 hours. The public is being urged to stay indoors and avoid parking vehicles under trees or fragile structures due to the risk of falling debris. Thousands of comments have been left by netizens who expressed their amazement at the weather, while many others shared updates on the dropping temperatures and power outages in their respective sectors.

Disruptions to Daily Life and Aviation

The impact of the hailstorm has extended beyond visual spectacle to influence a broader discussion on the region’s infrastructure resilience. It is frequently mentioned that flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were momentarily disrupted, with several diversions being reported due to the low visibility. A renewed sense of caution is being observed among school administrations and office complexes, many of which opted for early closures to ensure the safety of students and staff. It is believed that the viral nature of this specific “NCR Ice Storm” will lead to better localized weather forecasting and real-time alert systems for the urban population.

A Stark Reminder of Climate Volatility

As the footage continues to trend globally, it serves as a powerful and resilient reminder that the metropolitan heart of India is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events. It is believed that the “Delhi-NCR Hailstorm of 2026” will remain a primary highlight of the year’s most significant weather-related news stories. The legacy of this viral moment is expected to be a heightened public awareness regarding the importance of following official weather advisories. Until the skies clear and the mercury stabilizes, these videos remain a stark testament to the fact that even the busiest cities must pause when nature decides to strike.