A massive dust storm has hit Delhi-NCR on Thursday due to sudden change in weather conditions. A layer of dust was seen in several parts of the city and various sectors of Noida were also seen affected due to this weather condition. Visuals shared by news agencies like PTI and ANI showed thick layers of dust blanketing various areas including Kartavya Path in India Gate areas and Akshardham.
The sudden weather change followed a period of heatwave conditions in Delhi-NCR. The dust storm caused disruptions in daily life, affecting the movement of office goers. Several other areas that were affected due to the dust storm include Ghaziabad, Noida, and Greater Noida.
The dust storms were triggered by gusty winds sweeping at speeds of 30 to 40 kmph, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Visibility had fallen from 4,500 metre to 1,200 metre at IGI airport from 10 pm to 11:30 pm on Wednesday night after the dust storm.
Since the storm, calm to weak wind conditions, ranging from 3 to 7 kmph, have prevailed, preventing the dispersion of dust particles. As a result, visibility continues to remain poor, fluctuating between 1,200 and 1,500 metres at both the Safdarjung and Palam airports, the IMD added.
Air quality dips to poor category
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'. The weather department has predicted strong surface winds during the day.
Follow safety precautions:
Residents were advised to take precautions, such as staying hydrated and wearing light clothing. It is better to stay indoors at this time.
Other recent dust storm events:
In April 2025, Delhi and the NCR also experienced a dust storm and heavy rainfall after a heatwave.
This event caused disruptions, including the temporary closure of Indira Gandhi International Airport and the death of one person due to a wall collapse.
The India Meteorological Department had issued a forecast for thunderstorms, rain, and strong winds in the region.