# Delhi-NCR experiences sudden weather shift with dust storms, thunder and rain after days of heat
Delhi and its surrounding areas witnessed a dramatic change in weather conditions on Wednesday, as a severe hailstorm with heavy rainfall caused an abrupt transformation following several days of extreme heat. The sudden shift brought with it strong winds, dust storms, and flooding, disrupting traffic, flights, and daily life across the National Capital Region (NCR).
Severe Weather Conditions
After days of temperatures soaring above 40°C, the region experienced a sudden weather change in the late evening. A severe hailstorm with intense rainfall struck Delhi-NCR, leading to an abrupt weather transformation following a hot and humid day. Strong winds and dust storms hit parts of Delhi, causing poor visibility, uprooted trees, traffic disruptions, and flight diversions.
Impact on Infrastructure and Transportation
- Wind speeds reached up to 79 kmph in Safdarjung and 72 kmph in Palam.
- The storm uprooted trees, knocked down hoardings, and caused traffic jams, especially in central and south Delhi and across the NCR.
- Visuals from Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport showed continuous rainfall, while central and west Delhi saw strong winds.
- Areas like Gol Market and Lodi Road witnessed a short but intense hailstorm. In Noida, heavy rain and hail led to low visibility and waterlogged roads.
Disruptions to Air Travel
- Several domestic and international flights to Delhi have been delayed or diverted due to bad weather, according to airport sources.
- Waterlogging in low-lying areas slowed traffic and led to minor accidents during the evening rush.
Weather System and Climate Factors
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that a cyclonic circulation over Haryana and adjacent areas, within an east-west trough stretching from Punjab to Bangladesh in lower tropospheric levels, is affecting the weather patterns. The system is receiving moisture from both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.
The IMD also noted that Wednesday’s maximum temperature reached 40.7 degrees Celsius, exceeding normal by 0.5 degrees, while humidity fluctuated between 64 and 34 per cent. The heat index, or the ‘feels like’ temperature, reached 50.2 degrees Celsius due to combined high humidity and strong sunshine.
Weather Transition and Implications
This sudden weather change occurred after Delhi experienced intense heat earlier in the day. The transition highlights the variability of weather patterns in the region, with extreme heat giving way to a sudden and severe storm system. The IMD’s reports indicate that the weather system is influenced by broader atmospheric conditions, including a trough stretching across multiple states.
As the weather continues to evolve, residents in Delhi-NCR are advised to monitor updates and take necessary precautions, especially given the impact of such sudden weather changes on daily life and transportation.