A significant dust storm affected the national capital on Tuesday evening, with the Palam weather station reporting wind speeds peaking at 120 kmph. This recorded intensity matched the previous record set in 2001, as revealed by data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The gusty winds were noted between 6:50 pm and 6:52 pm.

Prior to this, the last time Palam experienced such high wind velocities was on June 4, 2001. Historical data indicates that greater wind speeds have been documented in earlier years, including 147 kmph on May 25, 1991, and 145 kmph on May 2, 1989. Additional records show winds of 139 kmph on June 6, 1997, and 126 kmph on June 16, 1988.

Strong Winds Recorded Across Delhi

Other weather stations in the region also reported substantial wind activity during the dust storm. For instance, Pusa registered a maximum wind speed of 80 kmph around 7:30 pm, while Safdarjung reported 64 kmph between 7:07 pm and 7:09 pm. Additional readings included Jafarpur at 59 kmph at 7:00 pm, Chhattarpur at 56 kmph at 7:15 pm, and other areas showing lower wind speeds.

As the storm progressed, soaring temperatures were evident throughout the city. The Ridge weather station recorded the highest maximum temperature at 44.7 degrees Celsius, which is 3.6 degrees above the average for this time of year. This was followed by Lodi Road at 44 degrees Celsius, approximately 4 degrees above normal. Palam and Ayanagar also reported elevated temperatures, with readings of 43.8 and 43.6 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Mahesh Palawat of Skymet Weather attributed the severe wind conditions and isolated rainfall activity to a cyclonic circulation persisting over central Pakistan and neighbouring areas. He indicated that similar weather patterns, featuring sporadic rain and gusty winds, are expected to continue into Wednesday.

Forecast for Continued Weather Instability

Looking ahead, Palawat predicted an intensification of pre-monsoon activity from June 11, which will likely lead to widespread rainfall across Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab. The anticipated increase in rain activity is expected to lower temperatures across the region significantly, potentially bringing them below 40 degrees Celsius in the following days.

The India Meteorological Department has also forecast a partly cloudy sky for Wednesday, with a chance of thunderstorms and lightning in isolated locations. Predicted temperatures for the day are expected to stabilise around 44 degrees Celsius for the maximum and 30 degrees Celsius for the minimum.

These weather fluctuations highlight the unpredictable nature of early summer conditions in Delhi, necessitating attention from residents and authorities alike. As the capital experiences these changes, the implications for daily life and public safety remain to be assessed.

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