Delhi Experiences Dust Storms, Rainfall, and Weather Alerts

Original: Dust, heat and rain: Delhi sees a day of multiple weather phenomena

Hindustan Times•Apr 4, 20263 min

In a Nutshell

Delhi faced a day of extreme weather on Friday, starting with a dust storm that worsened air quality, followed by clear skies and evening rainfall. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for thunderstorms and lightning as conditions are expected to remain unstable over the weekend.

Key Points

01Delhi recorded a poor air quality index of 266 due to dust storms.
02The maximum temperature reached 33.7°C, slightly below normal.
03Evening rainfall intensified, leading to an orange alert from the IMD.
04Weather fluctuations are attributed to active western disturbances.
05Similar weather patterns are expected over the weekend.

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Full Summary

On Friday, Delhi experienced a series of weather phenomena, beginning with a dust storm that raised pollution levels to a poor air quality index (AQI) of 266. The maximum temperature recorded was 33.7°C, slightly below normal, while the minimum temperature was 22.4°C, which is 3.4°C above normal. As the day progressed, the weather cleared before light rain began around 5 PM, intensifying into moderate showers by 8 PM. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert due to the potential for thunderstorms, lightning, and wind gusts of 40-50 km/h. The rapidly changing weather was influenced by active western disturbances affecting northwest India, with the IMD predicting continued variability over the weekend, including the possibility of light rain and thunderstorms. The forecast suggests a maximum temperature drop to 29-31°C on Saturday, remaining below normal, with similar conditions expected on Sunday.

Key Figures

266

Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded on Friday

33.7°C

Maximum temperature recorded

22.4°C

Minimum temperature recorded

40-50 km/h

Wind gust speeds expected during thunderstorms

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Why It Matters

The fluctuating weather conditions may affect daily activities, especially for commuters and outdoor workers due to reduced visibility and potential disruptions from thunderstorms.

Who is affected

commuters, outdoor workers, and residents in Delhi-NCR

What to know

Residents should stay informed about weather updates and take precautions during thunderstorms.

FAQ

The dust storm was caused by strong surface winds exceeding 20 km/h, influenced by active western disturbances.

Residents can expect partly cloudy skies with possible light rain and thunderstorms, along with cooler temperatures.

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