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A severe dust storm swept through Delhi-NCR, causing low visibility and traffic disruptions. IMD warns of more turbulent weather ahead. Get full details, forecast, and safety tips.
Dust Storm Sweeps Delhi-NCR: IMD Warns of Continued Turbulent Weather Conditions
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Happened: Timeline of the Dust Storm
- Areas Affected in Delhi-NCR
- IMD Weather Alert: Details and Forecast
- Visibility and Traffic Disruptions
- Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
- Effects on Air Quality
- Historical Context of Dust Storms in Delhi
- Safety Measures and IMD Advisory
- Public Reaction and Government Response
- Climate Patterns Behind the Storm
- What to Expect Next: Weather Outlook
- How to Stay Safe During Dust Storms
- Conclusion
Introduction
On May 15, 2025, a dust storm traveled through Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), creating near darkness in parts of the city and causing significant disruptions. As the weather worsened, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a number of warnings regarding hazardous weather over the next few days.
What Happened: Timeline of Dust Storm
The dust storm struck at about 4:30 PM, when strong gusty winds and thick clouds of dust impacted several areas.
• Winds of 40–60 km/h and sudden drops in temperatures all with reduced visibility.
• The storm occurred approximately 45 minutes, however the residual dust was still hanging in the air in the evening.
Areas Affected in Delhi-NCR
The dust storm hit a wide swathe of urban and semi-urban areas, including:
- Central and South Delhi (Connaught Place, RK Puram, Lajpat Nagar)
- Noida and Greater Noida
- Gurugram (MG Road, Sector 56, Cyber City)
- Faridabad
- Ghaziabad
Trees were uprooted, traffic signals went down, and power outages were reported in scattered areas.
IMD Weather Alert: Details and Forecast
Current Alert:
The IMD issued a “Yellow Warning” for Delhi-NCR, cautioning against:
- Further dust storms, thunderstorms, and squalls over the next 48–72 hours.
- Localized hail and short bursts of heavy rainfall in adjoining areas.
Why It Matters
These weather changes signify the transition into the pre-monsoon period, which is typically known for atmospheric instability and dry winds from Rajasthan colliding with moist easterlies.
Visibility and Traffic Disruptions
The dust storm caused massive reductions in visibility, with many regions falling below 300 meters.
Major Consequences:
- Flights were delayed at IGI Airport
- Metro services ran at reduced speeds in open sections
- Traffic bottlenecks and multiple minor road accidents were reported on major highways like the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway and DND Flyway
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
- Power Cuts: Local power grids tripped in multiple zones due to falling trees and wind damage.
- Outdoor Events: Several public gatherings and evening events were cancelled or delayed.
- Schools and Offices: Many institutions allowed early dismissals as a precaution.
Effects on Air Quality
AQI Spike:
Post-storm air quality deteriorated rapidly, with AQI levels in:
- Anand Vihar: 412 (Severe)
- RK Puram: 395 (Very Poor)
- Gurugram Sector 51: 378 (Very Poor)
The mix of dust particles and vehicular emissions created hazardous breathing conditions, especially for:
- Asthmatics
- Children
- Elderly
Historical Context of Dust Storms in Delhi
Delhi has witnessed several destructive dust storms in the past, including:
- May 2018: 11 deaths, widespread blackouts
- June 2020: Dust wall across NCR disrupted flights and communications
This recurring pattern during late May and early June is tied to intense heatwave conditions across northwest India.
Safety Measures and IMD Advisory
The IMD and Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) urged citizens to:
- Avoid outdoor movement during peak wind hours
- Secure loose items on balconies or rooftops
- Keep emergency kits and torches ready in case of power outages
- Stay away from trees, billboards, and construction sites
Public Reaction and Government Response
Citizens:
- Many took to social media, posting dramatic images and videos of the dust wall.
- Hashtags like #DelhiDustStorm, #IMDAlert, and #DelhiWeather trended on X (formerly Twitter).
Government:
- Delhi Police and NDMC set up rapid-response units in key zones.
- Municipal corporations deployed tree-cutting and clearing teams post-storm.
Climate Patterns Behind the Storm
The storm was driven by:
- Western Disturbance over north India
- Interaction with hot, dry winds from Rajasthan
- High surface temperatures (Delhi recorded 41.2°C before the storm hit)
Meteorologists suggest this reflects broader climate volatility affecting northern India.
What to Expect Next: Weather Outlook
Next 72 Hours:
- Thunderstorms and gusty winds (up to 50–70 km/h) expected
- Possibility of rain late at night
- Temperature drop by 2–3°C in next two days
- Another dust storm event not ruled out
IMD Forecast:
Stay alert through official bulletins on the Mausam App and IMD Delhi Twitter handle.
How to Stay Safe During Dust Storms
Before the Storm:
- Track weather alerts
- Charge all devices
- Shut all windows and doors
During the Storm:
- Stay indoors
- Avoid driving; if caught, park safely and wait
- Use masks to protect from dust inhalation
After the Storm:
- Avoid touching fallen power lines
- Clean surfaces with wet cloth to prevent dust allergies
- Check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors
Conclusion
The sudden dust storm that covered Delhi-NCR should serve as a concrete reminder about the climatic extremes that urban India is contending with, especially with more climatic volatility on the horizon. Citizen awareness, government preparedness, and a measuring staff that provides accurate forecasts, will help to mitigate the risks ahead.
Pay attention to IMD updates, and remember to officially take cover during high-risk situations.
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