A sudden change in weather patterns swept across Delhi-NCR on Friday morning, as dense cloud cover and strong dust-laden winds disrupted normal conditions across the region. The shift comes after a notably warm Thursday, when the capital recorded a maximum temperature of 36.8°C—2.8 degrees above the seasonal average—while the minimum settled at 18.9°C.
The changing atmospheric conditions have brought down visibility in several parts of the city, with commuters experiencing hazy skies and gusty winds from early hours, as per reports.
Dust Storm Disrupts Visibility Across NCR
Large parts of Delhi-NCR witnessed reduced visibility as a dust storm moved through the region, carried by strong surface winds. The sudden onset of dusty conditions marked a stark contrast to the relatively clear skies observed just a day earlier.
Meteorological officials indicate that the cloud build-up and shifting wind patterns are part of a broader system influencing northern India. The storm activity is expected to persist intermittently through the day, especially during the afternoon and evening hours when wind speeds could intensify.
Rain, Thunderstorms Likely Overnight
According to the India Meteorological Department, thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall are expected late Friday night and continuing into Saturday. Residents can also anticipate lightning activity and brief but intense spells of rain in isolated pockets.
Wind speeds are forecast to range between 20–30 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching up to 40 km/h. These conditions may bring temporary relief from the heat but could also lead to localized disruptions.
Daytime temperatures on Friday are expected to remain slightly lower, with maximum readings between 32°C and 34°C, while the minimum temperature may hover between 20°C and 22°C. Cloudy skies are likely to dominate, with a possibility of light drizzle during the day.
Air Quality Slips Into ‘Poor’ Category
While the weather shift may cool temperatures, it has adversely affected air quality. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) rose significantly from 167 in the morning on Thursday to 189 by evening. By 7 am on Friday, the AQI had climbed further to 218, placing it in the “poor” category. The CPCB classifies AQI levels between 201 and 300 as “poor,” indicating potential health impacts, particularly for sensitive groups. The combination of dust particles and unstable weather conditions is likely contributing to the deterioration in air quality, even as rainfall may offer some temporary relief in the coming hours.