The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi-NCR, cautioning residents about the high possibility of a dust storm followed by a thunderstorm. This weather pattern is expected to bring gusty winds, with speeds reaching up to 70 kmph, and a potential hailstorm in the next few hours.
The red alert, the highest level of weather warning, advises residents and authorities to take immediate action to protect themselves and minimize damage. The IMD's advisory suggests a high likelihood of significant disruption to daily life, including traffic congestion, reduced visibility, and potential damage to vulnerable structures. Citizens are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
This extreme weather event follows a period of intense heat in Delhi-NCR, where temperatures have soared, creating conditions conducive to such storms. A similar weather pattern recently struck the region on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, bringing a sudden and intense dust storm, heavy rainfall, and hailstorms. The previous storm caused widespread disruption, with uprooted trees and waterlogged roads reported across Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad. Wind speeds reached up to 79 kmph, providing relief from a "feels like" temperature of 50.2 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has attributed these storms to cyclonic circulation over Haryana, drawing moisture from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The current red alert indicates a continuation of this weather pattern, with the potential for even more severe conditions. The combination of dust storms, thunderstorms, and hailstorms poses significant risks to infrastructure and public safety.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor objects, stay away from windows, and avoid contact with electrical equipment during the storm. Motorists should exercise caution due to reduced visibility and potential traffic congestion. Authorities are likely to be on high alert, with emergency services prepared to respond to any incidents caused by the severe weather. The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the storm progresses.
