Delhi NCR hit by severe dust storm, red alert issued

A severe dust storm accompanied by powerful winds swept across Delhi and the National Capital Region on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue a red alert for severe thunderstorms, lightning, and rain. The sudden weather change, which began around 2:30 p.m., dramatically reduced visibility, darkened skies, and disrupted normal life across the capital and neighboring areas.

The IMD warned that squally winds reaching speeds of 80 to 100 kilometers per hour were very likely over most parts of Delhi, with severe thunderstorms and lightning expected in the following hours. The agency issued a nowcast, or localized short-term alert, placing most of the city under a red alert, indicating the highest level of severe weather warning. The alert was also communicated to district authorities and disaster management officials, who were advised to take necessary precautions.

Videos shared on social media showed massive dust clouds engulfing roads and residential areas, with landmarks like Kartavya Path near India Gate completely obscured. The storm initially impacted Gurugram before spreading to Delhi, Noida, and other parts of the NCR. Meteorologists...