Weather Update: Severe Dust Storm to Strike Delhi-NCR; IMD issues 'Yellow Alert'

New Delhi: A major dust storm is expected to hit Delhi within the next few hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Yellow Alert'. Originating from the west, this storm is currently moving towards Delhi-NCR, passing through Rajasthan and Haryana.

What does the IMD Alert warn about?

The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert specifically for Delhi. A dust storm is likely to strike the city within the next three hours. The storm is expected to reach Delhi within two hours and will continue to have an impact between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

This storm originated in the western region and is currently advancing toward Delhi-NCR. On its path, it is expected to sweep across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. Wind speeds could reach up to 50 kilometers per hour. Consequently, a haze may blanket the sky, and visibility could be significantly reduced.

The storm is also expected to have another major impact: a deterioration in air quality (AQI). Breathing in dust-laden air is already difficult; a further decline in the AQI could exacerbate the difficulties faced by Delhi residents. Currently, the storm has begun its advance from the west and is rapidly approaching Delhi-NCR.

What are the weather conditions in Delhi?

On Sunday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius—3.4 degrees higher than the seasonal average. The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for the next three days, warning of heatwave conditions and strong surface winds. Meanwhile, the capital's air quality deteriorated to the 'Poor' category by 4:00 PM, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 205. For the past few days, temperatures across Delhi-NCR have consistently remained above the 40-degree mark. Experts warn that the combined impact of the heat and strong winds is likely to intensify further in the coming days.