Dust storm sweeps Delhi-NCR, IMD warns of more turbulent weather

A sudden dust storm swept through Delhi-NCR on Thursday morning, blanketing the region in a thick layer of dust and disrupting daily life across the capital and its satellite cities. The storm, which followed a spell of intense heat, reduced visibility and caused significant inconvenience to commuters, particularly office-goers navigating the early rush hour.

VIDEO | Delhi-NCR witnesses dusty weather. Morning visuals from Kartavya Path, India Gate areas. #DelhiWeather #WeatherUpdated(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/CsRwMZZlcx
Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 15, 2025

The storm's impact was felt across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida, where residents reported disrupted commutes and deteriorated air quality, according to a Business Standard report. Visuals shared by PTI on X depicted iconic landmarks like Kartavya Path near India Gate and the Akshardham area shrouded in dust, with swirling winds obscuring visibility.

VIDEO | Dusty weather prevails in Delhi-NCR. Morning visuals from Akshardham area.(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz)#DelhiWeather #WeatherUpdate #Delhi pic.twitter.com/EEIWXOMNopPress Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 15, 2025

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued alerts for thunderstorms and strong winds, with gusts expected to reach 70–80 km/h. At 5.19 am, the IMD posted on X, “Severe thunder lightning squally winds 70-80 kmph likely over Delhi during next 2 hours”. The department also warned of moderate to intense spells of rainfall and thunderstorms likely to continue in Delhi, NCR and adjoining regions.

This event mirrors a similar occurrence in April 2025, when a severe dust storm accompanied by heavy rainfall led to significant disruptions, including the diversion of 15 flights and the tragic death of one individual due to a wall collapse.

The dust storm caused significant disruptions, particularly for office goers, as visibility dropped and road conditions worsened. Authorities advised residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, wearing light clothing and remaining indoors as much as possible, as per a report by India TV.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions during such weather events, including staying indoors, keeping hydrated and avoiding unnecessary travel. The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.

Air quality dips to poor in city after dust storm
The dust storm has affected Delhi's air quality, with the AQI slipping into the poor category after remaining in the moderate range for the past few weeks.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the AQI was recorded at 236 in the poor category at 8 am.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.