KKN Gurugram Desk | Late Wednesday night, a thick layer of dust blanketed the skies of Delhi and its surrounding NCR (National Capital Region), creating a dense haze that resembled heavy fog. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed this sudden phenomenon to strong winds that swept across the region, lifting dust particles into the lower atmosphere. This not only reduced visibility but also significantly deteriorated the air quality across the capital.

Dust Clouds Over Delhi: What Happened on Wednesday Night?

Residents of Delhi-NCR were caught off-guard on Wednesday night as a dense, fog-like haze took over the skies. According to the IMD’s latest update, this wasn’t typical fog but rather a dust storm triggered by sudden strong winds and partially cloudy skies.

As per IMD data, the winds picked up speed around 10:00 PM, pushing a large volume of fine dust particles into the lower atmosphere. Between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM, visibility in the capital dropped dramatically—from 4,500 meters to just 1,200 meters.

Key Meteorological Observations:

• Wind-induced dust uplift: Sudden wind gusts lifted settled dust from the surface into the atmosphere.

• Reduced visibility: Visibility dropped by nearly three times within 90 minutes.

• Widespread coverage: The dust haze affected most parts of Delhi-NCR, including Safdarjung, Palam, and iconic locations such as Humayun’s Tomb.

• Poor air quality: Due to dust accumulation, AQI (Air Quality Index) in several pockets reached ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ categories.

Why Did Visibility Drop So Sharply in Delhi-NCR?

The Indian Meteorological Department stated that the combination of high wind speed and humid, cloudy conditions allowed dust particles to remain suspended in the lower atmosphere instead of dispersing.

Normally, wind disperses airborne particles, but the humid atmospheric layers caused the fine dust to accumulate closer to the surface. This resulted in what many locals described as a “smoky fog,” though it was actually an airborne dust cloud.

Impact on Visibility (As per IMD):

This dramatic shift affected night-time commuters, air traffic monitoring, and general public movement.

Which Areas Were Most Affected by the Dust Storm?

The dust haze did not remain confined to central Delhi. Surrounding NCR districts experienced similar conditions. The IMD confirmed that Safdarjung Airport, Palam Airport, and historic landmarks such as Humayun’s Tomb were all enveloped by the dust.

Heavily Affected Zones:

• South Delhi: Safdarjung, Lajpat Nagar, Saket

• West Delhi: Palam, Dwarka, Janakpuri

• Central Delhi: Connaught Place, India Gate vicinity

• Noida and Ghaziabad: Widespread haze and reduced visibility

• Faridabad and Gurugram: Dust presence noted, though slightly less intense

Health Advisory Issued as Air Quality Dips

With dust levels spiking, the Air Quality Index (AQI) nosedived across Delhi-NCR. The sudden influx of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) into the air made it difficult for sensitive groups to breathe. Hospitals and clinics reported a mild increase in respiratory complaints, especially among asthma patients, children, and the elderly.

IMD and Health Department Advisory Includes:

• Avoid outdoor activities, especially during morning and late-night hours.

• Wear N95 or anti-pollution masks while stepping out.

• Use air purifiers indoors.

• Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous exercise.

Morning Relief: Wind Speed Pushes Dust Out

By Thursday morning, partial improvement in conditions was observed. Winds picked up speed to about 10 km/h, which helped to disperse some of the settled dust particles. As a result, visibility increased slightly to 1,500 meters by early morning.

Meteorological experts believe the situation is expected to improve steadily throughout the day, depending on wind consistency and direction.

IMD Forecast: More Relief by Friday, Rain Likely

The IMD has issued a more optimistic forecast for Friday (May 16), stating that weather conditions are expected to normalize with the likelihood of thundershowers and scattered rain.

Rainfall and Wind Predictions (Friday):

• Delhi, Haryana, and parts of Rajasthan may experience light to moderate rainfall.

• Wind speeds could reach up to 50 km/h, aiding in dust dispersal.

• Possible improvement in AQI as rain helps to settle airborne pollutants.

This rain will not only wash away dust particles but also bring relief from the rising heat and humidity that has gripped the region in recent weeks.

Why Is Delhi Prone to Dust Storms in Pre-Monsoon Season?

Dust storms are not uncommon during the pre-monsoon months of April to June in northern India. Delhi, due to its geographical position and proximity to the Thar Desert, is particularly vulnerable. Dry surface conditions, rising temperatures, and sudden western disturbances trigger localized storms.

Main Causes Behind Dust Events in Delhi-NCR:

1. Sudden wind surges due to western disturbances

2. High land surface temperatures

3. Lack of pre-monsoon showers

4. Loose topsoil and construction dust

5. Urban heat islands amplifying convection patterns

These factors combine to create a perfect storm, allowing fine dust particles to be lifted and suspended over the region.

Impact on Transportation and Daily Life

The Wednesday night dust haze had several real-world consequences:

• Flight delays: Poor visibility forced some flight operations to operate with caution, especially at IGI Airport.

• Traffic disruption: Reduced visibility on key roads like Ring Road, NH-8, and Delhi-Noida Direct Flyway.

• Public alert: Delhi Police and civic bodies issued advisories for commuters and outdoor workers.

• Construction halted: Pollution control boards advised temporary suspension of non-essential construction activities to avoid further dust generation.

Weather Outlook for Delhi-NCR (Next 3 Days)

Precautionary Measures Recommended by Experts

As these dust events grow more frequent due to climate variability and urban expansion, experts recommend proactive citizen awareness and preventive actions:

• For daily commuters: Use public transport and wear protective eyewear.

• For households: Seal windows and use exhaust fans to prevent dust entry.

• For children and elderly: Minimize outdoor exposure during high AQI alerts.

• For schools and offices: Monitor IMD updates and consider hybrid operations during extreme weather.

The sudden dust storm over Delhi-NCR is a reminder of the environmental stress the capital endures. While nature played a role, human activities like unchecked construction, deforestation, and vehicular emissions intensify these effects.

As per IMD forecasts, relief is expected by Friday, but this event adds to the growing list of environmental alerts urging authorities and citizens alike to act responsibly.