Dust Storms and Heavy Rain Batter Delhi, IMD Issues Orange Alert
Dust storms and lightning-streaked skies swept across the national capital on Wednesday evening, as fierce winds and rain disrupted normal life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) responded by issuing an orange alert for Delhi, signaling a 'be prepared' status for authorities and the public.
Widespread Impact Across Delhi Districts
The weather department forwarded the alert to all State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs), warning of adverse conditions expected across multiple districts. These include Central, East, New Delhi, North, Northeast, Northwest, Shahdara, South, Southeast, Southwest, and West districts. According to the IMD, an orange alert indicates that disruptive weather could significantly affect daily activities.
Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong surface winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, with gusts up to 60 kmph, are very likely at many places over parts of Delhi during the next three hours, the weather office stated in an official release.
Record Wind Speeds and Power Disruptions
Weather observations indicated intensifying conditions, with Palam recording winds of 18 knots (35 kmph) and gusts up to 28 knots (50 kmph) around 7 pm. Strong winds swept across the city, with Pragati Maidan recording the highest gust at 68 kmph, followed closely by Pusa at 65 kmph. Other areas also experienced significant wind activity:
- Palam: 50 kmph
- Lodi Road: 46 kmph
- IGNOU: 44 kmph
- Naraina: 41 kmph
- Pitampura: 33 kmph
The high-velocity winds led to widespread power outages and disruptions in many areas of the capital, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents.
Safety Advisories and Precautions
The IMD issued a series of advisories to ensure public safety during the storm. Residents were urged to stay indoors and avoid weak or vulnerable structures. Specific cautions included staying away from windows, electrical poles, and power lines. The department also advised securing loose objects to prevent accidents.
Farmers have been instructed to suspend work temporarily and move livestock to safer locations. Motorists caught in the storm were advised to pull over in a safe place and remain inside their vehicles, rather than attempting to drive through strong winds and flying debris.
This weather event underscores the importance of heeding meteorological warnings and taking proactive measures to mitigate risks during severe conditions.
