A thick dust storm swept across Delhi-NCR early Thursday morning, drastically reducing visibility and impacting daily life for commuters. The dust, carried by strong winds, blanketed several parts of the national capital including areas like Akshardham, Kartavya Path, and Noida. This sudden weather change not only caused poor visibility but also led to a significant rise in pollution levels, temporarily easing the intense heat gripping the region.
Dust Storm and Its Impact on Visibility
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), gusty winds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph triggered the dust storm that began late Wednesday night. At the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), visibility sharply dropped from 4,500 meters to just 1,200 meters between 10 pm and 11:30 pm. Similar reductions in visibility were reported at Safdarjung Airport and Hindon Airport, affecting air traffic and operations. The dust enveloped several key locations, disrupting normal commutes and causing discomfort for residents. Videos circulated widely on social media showed thick clouds of dust rolling over multiple neighborhoods across Delhi and its neighboring regions.
Air Quality Deteriorates Amid Dust Storm
The dust storm also negatively affected Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI). Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed an average AQI of 236 at 8 a.m. on Thursday, placing the air quality in the ‘poor’ category. The IMD had issued warnings early Thursday morning predicting severe thunder, lightning, and squally winds of up to 70-80 kmph within the next two hours, which further contributed to the volatile weather conditions.
This sudden surge in dust and pollution brought a brief respite from the ongoing heatwave, with the maximum temperature recorded at 40.4 degrees Celsius and the minimum expected to hover around 25.4 degrees Celsius. The IMD forecast predicts partly cloudy skies for May 16, with a possibility of light rain, thunderstorms, and lightning accompanied by gusty winds. Similar weather patterns, including partly cloudy skies, are expected to continue through May 17 and 18, offering some relief to the residents of the capital region.
The dust storm serves as a reminder of how rapidly weather conditions can change in Delhi-NCR, affecting daily life, transportation, and public health.
