Dust storm and hail lash Delhi-NCR: Flights halted, visibility drops, IMD warns of more weather shifts across region

A powerful dust storm hit Delhi and surrounding NCR areas on Wednesday evening, bringing a sudden break to the ongoing hot and humid weather. The storm led to reduced visibility across Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad. In several regions, including Noida, the storm was followed by hail and rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) linked the unusual weather to a cyclonic circulation over Haryana, supported by an east-west trough extending from Punjab to Bangladesh.

Winds, rain and hail disrupt daily life

In East Delhi areas like Yamuna Vihar, Bhajanpura, and Gokalpuri, visuals showed columns of dust moving through streets and trees swaying in strong winds. Noida and Ghaziabad also witnessed similar conditions. Rain and hail were reported in parts of the capital soon after the storm. According to the IMD, moisture from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal contributed to the unstable weather conditions. A red alert was issued in several districts as the IMD predicted light to moderate rain, dust storms, thunderstorms and gusty winds.

Flight operations affected amid wind speeds over 70 kmph

Due to severe weather, airport authorities declared an “Aircraft on Ground” situation—where aircraft could not take off due to technical concerns arising from the storm. Wind speeds were recorded between 35 kmph and 79 kmph in Palam and Safdarjung areas. This followed similar weather in parts of Punjab and Chandigarh, where hail and thunderstorms were also reported.

Temperature crosses 50°C heat index, air quality poor

Before the storm, Delhi residents experienced extreme discomfort. The “feels like” temperature touched 50.2°C due to high humidity. The maximum recorded temperature on Wednesday was 40.7°C—0.5°C above normal—with humidity ranging from 64% to 34%. The capital’s minimum temperature was the highest this season at 30.2°C, 3.5°C above normal. The IMD forecasted temperatures for Thursday (May 22) to be around 40°C maximum and 29°C minimum. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 213 at 4 pm, which falls in the ‘poor’ category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

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