Residents across parts of Rajasthan witnessed dramatic scenes on Saturday afternoon after a massive dust storm engulfed large stretches of the state, turning bright daylight into an eerie twilight as dense clouds of sand swept across the region. The severe weather event affected districts including Bikaner, Churu and Sri Ganganagar, where visibility dropped sharply, and daily life was disrupted by powerful winds carrying desert dust.
The storm arrived suddenly around mid-afternoon, transforming the skyline into a vast wall of brown and orange haze. In many areas, motorists were forced to switch on vehicle headlights as thick dust clouds reduced visibility to a minimum and made travel hazardous.
Daylight disappears under blanket of dust
According to India TV, the worst-hit areas experienced conditions many residents described as resembling nightfall in the middle of the day. Strong winds lifted huge quantities of loose sand from the desert landscape, covering roads, buildings and open spaces in a thick layer of dust.
In Bikaner, residents reported near-zero visibility at certain locations as powerful gusts swept through the city. The storm temporarily brought outdoor activity to a standstill, with people rushing indoors to escape the harsh conditions.
Similar scenes unfolded in Sadulpur town in Churu district, where weather conditions changed dramatically within minutes. Dense dust clouds turned the sky reddish-brown, while strong winds damaged hoardings, tin sheds and tree branches in several areas.
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Rain follows storm, brings relief
According to India TV, after the dust storm passed, several affected districts received rainfall, which helped settle the suspended dust and brought much-needed relief from the intense summer heat that had gripped Rajasthan in recent days.
The weather change also led to a noticeable drop in temperatures. However, strong winds and adverse conditions disrupted electricity supply in multiple locations, leaving some areas without power.
Despite reports of property damage, no major casualties had been reported immediately after the storm.
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Delhi-NCR next in line
According to India TV, meteorologists have warned that the same weather system is moving towards Delhi and neighbouring NCR cities. According to forecasts, the capital region could experience dust storms followed by thunderstorms, lightning activity and rainfall.
The weather system has developed due to extreme surface heating over northwestern India, combined with strong winds lifting loose soil from the Thar Desert. Forecasters expect gusty winds reaching speeds of 50 to 70 kilometres per hour in parts of Delhi-NCR.
The approaching weather activity is also expected to provide significant relief from the heatwave conditions that have affected the national capital over the past week, although authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during periods of strong winds and thunderstorms.
