A dust storm swept through several parts of Delhi-NCR on Sunday afternoon, signalling a significant change in weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Residents in Delhi, Noida and adjoining areas witnessed dark skies and strong winds after days of oppressive heat, raising hopes that the southwest monsoon could soon reach the national capital.
The weather department also predicted light to moderate rainfall in several parts of the region, with changing weather conditions expected to continue through the evening.
IMD forecasts thunderstorms and strong winds
According to the IMD, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and winds ranging between 40 kmph and 60 kmph were expected across Delhi-NCR for several hours on Sunday. Later updates expanded the warning, forecasting gusts that could reach up to 70 kmph in some locations, along with scattered rainfall.
An orange alert was issued for multiple districts in Delhi, urging residents to remain prepared for potentially disruptive weather. The IMD's colour-coded warning system categorises orange as a level requiring heightened caution, with the possibility of moderate weather-related disruptions.
Similar weather conditions were also forecast for neighbouring districts in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan as the weather system moved across northwestern India.
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Dust storm brings relief from scorching heat
According to News 18, the sudden dust storm significantly reduced temperatures in several parts of Delhi-NCR, providing temporary relief from the intense summer conditions that have gripped the region in recent weeks. Visuals from Noida, central Delhi and other locations showed thick dust clouds moving across roads before cooler winds swept through the area.
The changing weather comes after Delhi experienced high humidity and elevated "real feel" temperatures over the past several days, making outdoor conditions particularly uncomfortable for residents.
While rainfall remained scattered, the strong winds helped improve conditions across much of the capital.
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Monsoon expected to advance further
According to News 18, the IMD said atmospheric conditions remain favourable for the further advance of the southwest monsoon into northwestern India, including Delhi and surrounding regions.
Although the national capital is still officially awaiting the arrival of the monsoon, forecasters expect isolated thunderstorms, lightning and intermittent rainfall over the coming days as the seasonal weather system progresses northward.
Authorities have advised residents to monitor official weather updates and exercise caution during periods of strong winds, thunderstorms and lightning, particularly while travelling or engaging in outdoor activities. The evolving weather pattern is expected to bring more widespread relief from the prolonged spell of summer heat across the region.
