What Happened as Dust Storm Engulfed Delhi-NCR?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As a sudden dust storm hit Delhi-NCR, residents faced terrifying conditions with reduced visibility and severe air quality issues. The IMD has issued a red alert, warning of possible hailstorms and urging people to stay indoors. Discover the impact of this storm on daily life in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Dust storm significantly impacts visibility and air quality.
- IMD issued a red alert for the region.
- Residents experienced dangerous commuting conditions.
- Health risks are heightened for those with respiratory conditions.
- Dust particles remain suspended in the atmosphere, affecting visibility.
Gurugram, May 15 (NationPress) A sudden dust storm, paired with strong winds, swept across Delhi-NCR late Wednesday night, causing significant disruptions in traffic, diminishing visibility, and greatly worsening air quality.
In areas such as Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, and various NCR cities, the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassed the 200 threshold, entering the ‘poor’ category, raising health alarms among the populace.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for dust storms throughout the region.
Numerous trees were uprooted in different sectors of Gurugram, including Sectors 15, 18, 32, 37, Kadipur Industrial Area, Palam Vihar, and Sector 51, rendering commuting perilous.
"It was astonishing. A massive dust cloud hit us out of nowhere this morning. The roads were barely discernible, and I witnessed branches falling directly in front of my vehicle. It was frightening," recounted Sanjay Siwan, a resident of Sector 38.
Tushar Singh from Sector 65 remarked, "When I peered out from my balcony last night, the entire vicinity was enveloped in dust. The wind was so fierce that it rattled my windows."
The IMD has urged residents to stay indoors and has warned of a potential hailstorm in the area. It also flagged the risk of damage to fragile structures, crops, and plantations.
This marked the second consecutive day of dust storms in the city. After the storm, Gurugram's maximum temperature fell by 2 degrees Celsius—from 42.1 degrees Celsius on Wednesday to 38.1 degrees Celsius on Thursday.
Dust particles stirred up by the storm are deemed hazardous, particularly for those with respiratory ailments like asthma and bronchitis.
Wind speeds significantly decreased post-midnight, stabilizing around 3-7 km/h, resulting in dust remaining suspended in the air. Morning visibility was alarmingly poor, fluctuating between 1,200 and 1,400 meters.
The mix of poor visibility and polluted air continues to pose a severe risk to both commuters and those with health vulnerabilities.
Point of View
The recent dust storm highlights the pressing need for improved urban infrastructure and emergency preparedness. As climate-related events become more frequent, ensuring the safety of residents in densely populated areas like Delhi-NCR must remain a top priority.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cause of the dust storm in Delhi-NCR?
The dust storm is caused by strong winds lifting dust particles from the ground, exacerbated by dry conditions and ongoing weather patterns.
How does the dust storm affect air quality?
Dust storms contribute to elevated levels of particulate matter in the air, leading to poor air quality which can be harmful, especially for individuals with respiratory issues.
What precautions should residents take during a dust storm?
Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and use air purifiers if available.
