New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS): Rains caused such a sudden and drastic fall in the temperature that Thursday became the coldest Jan 22 in the past five years, the maximum temperature going eight notches below the season's average 13.2 degrees Celsius.

The Met Office has forecast light showers in the national capital Friday.

Since 2010, the lowest maximum temperature recorded was 15 degrees Celsius last year, an official with the India Meteorological Department said.

Rain affected traffic on Delhi roads. A total of 6.2 metres of rain was recorded till 5.30 p.m.

The weather department predicted rain during the Republic Day parade and celebrations Jan 26.

The minimum temperature Thursday was 11 degrees Celsius - three notches above the seasons' average.

Friday is expected to be cloudy and might see rains, the Met office said, adding that Friday's maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 16 and 10 degrees Celsius.