What Caused the Dust Storms and Rain in Delhi-NCR?
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Synopsis
Delhi-NCR experiences tumultuous weather for three days, uprooting trees and damaging infrastructure. As dust storms and rain wreak havoc, residents must navigate the chaos. Discover how this weather pattern is affecting daily life in the capital region.
Key Takeaways
- Severe weather has disrupted daily life in Delhi-NCR for three days.
- Infrastructure damage includes uprooted trees and damaged traffic lights.
- The IMD forecasts further storms and rain.
- Pollution levels have spiked, prompting a response from the CAQM.
- Temperatures remain high despite rainfall.
New Delhi, May 17 (NationPress) Severe dust storms and powerful winds swept through Delhi and nearby NCR areas, including Noida and Ghaziabad, on Saturday, marking the third day of chaotic weather in the region. This unexpected and fierce weather led to uprooted trees, infrastructure damage, and traffic disruptions across multiple locations.
In Noida, intense rain coupled with strong winds caused extensive damage. Several trees were uprooted across various sectors, with some crashing onto parked cars.
At the Ashok Nagar station, a section of the Rapid Rail Metro's shed experienced structural damage. Additionally, a traffic light pole fell near DM Chowk during the storm.
Delhi also faced the brunt of the storm. In Connaught Place, a tree fell near PVR Plaza, landing on numerous vehicles after a heavy downpour.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously forecast thunderstorms and rain for Saturday, predicting maximum temperatures around 42 degrees Celsius.
At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, the IMD issued a warning indicating that a dust storm followed by a thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and lightning was likely to occur throughout Delhi and the NCR within two hours. Gusty winds were expected to reach speeds of 40 to 60 km/h.
The national capital had been affected by a persistent weather disturbance since Thursday. The IMD attributed the dusty conditions to dust being carried from North Pakistan, moving towards Delhi-NCR via Punjab and Haryana due to strong lower-level westerly winds.
Friday exhibited similar weather, with rain and thunderstorms reported in areas such as Narela, Bawana, Rohini, Burari, Karawal Nagar, Safdarjung, and Lodhi Road.
Winds reached speeds up to 60 km/h, with rainfall recorded across the city: 1.4 mm at Safdarjung, 7.2 mm at Aya Nagar, and 3 mm at Ridge.
Despite the rain, temperatures remained high, with Delhi recording a maximum of 42.3 degrees Celsius. Aya Nagar peaked at 44 degrees Celsius, followed by Palam at 43.3 degrees Celsius and Ridge at 43.2 degrees Celsius.
The dust-laden winds also resulted in a significant increase in pollution levels. Consequently, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reintroduced Stage-I measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the NCR on Friday due to a rise in the AQI on May 15.
Point of View
I stand with the nation during these challenging weather conditions. The recent dust storms and heavy rains highlight the urgent need for effective infrastructure and safety measures to protect residents in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the dust storms in Delhi-NCR?
The dust storms were attributed to dust being carried from North Pakistan, influenced by strong westerly winds.
How have the storms affected infrastructure?
The storms have resulted in uprooted trees, damaged buildings, and fallen traffic light poles, causing significant disruptions.
What measures are being taken to address pollution levels?
The Commission for Air Quality Management has reimposed Stage-I measures of the Graded Response Action Plan to combat rising pollution levels.
What was the weather forecast for the region?
The IMD predicted thunderstorms and rain with maximum temperatures around 42 degrees Celsius.
What areas were most affected by the storms?
Areas like Noida, Ghaziabad, Connaught Place, and various sectors in Delhi experienced significant weather-related damage.
