Delhi-NCR Bathed in Rain After Dust Storm

Delhi-NCR experienced a dramatic shift in weather on Friday evening as a sudden dust storm gave way to heavy rain, bringing much-needed relief from the intense heat.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a yellow alert, predicting light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds. IMD even tweeted that gusty winds of 30-40 kmph were expected across the region within the next two hours.

Visuals shared on social media showed rain cascading over bustling city streets, offering a welcome respite from the sweltering temperatures.

The IMD forecasts a weekend with maximum temperatures ranging between 40 and 41 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures around 26 degrees Celsius.

This weather shift came after Delhi faced poor air quality earlier in the week, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 300 in several areas. The pollution levels spiked on Thursday following a strong dust storm that significantly reduced visibility.

The IMD attributed the dust storm to a strong pressure gradient over northwest India, resulting in strong surface winds gusting between 30 and 40 kmph, impacting Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and north Rajasthan.

Despite the rain, some parts of Delhi and NCR experienced severe waterlogging, disrupting daily life.