Why is Delhi-NCR so dusty today? Here's what's behind the sudden dust storm
The winds lift fine sand and dust particles high into the atmosphere and transport them across hundreds of kilometres from central Pakistan.
The sudden change in weather, which also brought gusty winds and patchy rain to some areas, is the result of a combination of regional and atmospheric factors, according to weather experts.
A disturbance interacted with unusually warm surface temperatures over north India, creating atmospheric instability. As a result, strong winds, often reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h, developed across Delhi-NCR, kicking up large amounts of loose dust.
Meteorologists say the dust blanketing the capital is not locally generated alone. Instead, it has been carried over long distances by strong winds blowing in from arid regions.
Desert areas such as the Thar Desert in Rajasthan and parts of Balochistan and central Pakistan are key sources.
These winds lift fine sand and dust particles high into the atmosphere and transport them across hundreds of kilometres.
Hence the Delhi-NCR woke up to hazy skies and dust-laden winds on April 3 (Friday) as a powerful dust storm swept across the region, reducing visibility and sending air quality levels soaring.
The sudden change in weather, which also brought gusty winds and patchy rain to some areas, is the result of a combination of regional and atmospheric factors, according to weather experts.
At the heart of the phenomenon is a western disturbance, a weather system that originates over the Mediterranean region and travels eastwards toward north India.
These systems are known to trigger abrupt weather changes, including thunderstorms, strong winds, and dust storms, especially during the transition from winter to summer.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of further dust, intense winds, and thunderstorms, with an orange alert for severe weather in Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad.
When wind speeds drop over Delhi-NCR, the particles remain suspended in the air, creating the thick haze seen today.
Adding to the problem is the lack of recent rainfall, which has left the soil dry and loose, making it easier for winds to pick up dust.
Rising temperatures ahead of summer have further worsened conditions, intensifying dust activity.
Dust storms in Delhi are often brief but intense because they are tied to fast-moving weather systems.
Warm air near the surface rises rapidly, pulling in cooler air and moisture from upper layers, which then generates strong gusty winds.
A few individuals reportedly faced cloudy skies and dusty winds during their routine morning walk.
"The weather is good, but I am facing some difficulty in breathing due to the dust. We need to do something about Delhi pollution," said one.
ends
No comments:
Post a Comment