For the second straight day, Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region were engulfed by a massive dust storm on Friday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for the area.
According to the IMD, “Dust storm followed by thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 km/h, is very likely to occur across Delhi and NCR in the next two hours.”
The storm follows Thursday’s spell of dust and light rain, which brought a noticeable dip in temperatures. The IMD had earlier predicted that the Capital would witness rain and thunderstorms between April 9 and 11, triggered by an approaching western disturbance.
Thursday’s weather had already offered a preview of the current conditions, as a dust storm followed by sudden showers swept through the city, causing temperatures to plummet within an hour and bringing welcome relief from the intense heat.
Over 15 flights diverted at Delhi airport
More than 15 flights were diverted from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday evening as strong dust storms and gusty winds swept across the city.
Sources confirmed that flight operations were significantly affected due to the adverse weather. In a post on X at 7:15 PM, airport operator DIAL stated, “Due to inclement weather conditions in Delhi, some flights at Delhi Airport are impacted. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates.”
Budget airline IndiGo also reported disruptions, noting that both Delhi and Jaipur were experiencing dust storms, which were hampering takeoffs and landings and could lead to air traffic congestion, delays, or further diversions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region, cautioning residents about deteriorating weather conditions in the coming hours.
With inputs from PTI