New Delhi, July 21 - Heavy showers lashed many parts of the national capital Tuesday, bringing a smile on people's faces and much-needed relief from the sweltering and humid weather of the past few weeks.

But the heavy downpour caught many by surprise as the day began on a rather sunny note. By noon, dark clouds engulfed the city skies and it poured in no time.

According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), an upper air cyclonic circulation over the national capital and its neighbourhood brought the rainfall.

'Delhi is likely to receive slight to heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours which is likely to bring down the maximum and minimum temperature,' an official at the Safdarjung met office told IANS.

People across the capital enjoyed the showers and many even ventured out to feel the rain drops on them.