Delhi-NCR hit by massive dust storm, orange alert sounded

The weather agency has predicted heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms across various parts of Delhi-NCR between 3 pm and 4:30 pm.Dust storm hits Gurgaon, Delhi. (Representative image)The weather in the Delhi-NCR region took a sudden turn on Tuesday afternoon as a dust storm accompanied by strong winds swept across the area, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert.The weather agency has predicted heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms across various parts of Delhi-NCR between 3 pm and 4:30 pm."Dust storm followed by a thunderstorm with light rainfall and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds of 50-80 km/h, is very likely to occur across Delhi and NCR, including Meham, Sonipat, Rohtak, Kharkhoda, Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri, Matanhail, Jhajjar, Farrukhnagar, Kosli, Sohna, Rewari, Palwal, Bawal, Nuh, Aurangabad and Hodal (Haryana); Bagpat, Khekra, Pilakhua, Sikandrabad, Nandgaon and Barsana (Uttar Pradesh); and Bhiwadi, Tijara, Alwar, Nagar, Deeg, Laxmangarh and Nadbai (Rajasthan) during the next two hours," the IMD said.About the AuthorKanishka SinghariaKanishka Singharia is a Senior Content Producer at Mint with a passion for news, trends, and the stories shaping the digital world. She specialises in spotting viral narratives by constantly tracking social media platforms and turning them into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Her work ranges from fast-paced breaking updates to sensitive human-interest features, blending speed with clarity. With over four years of experience in news and trend reporting, Kanishka has worked with leading organisations such as Hindustan Times and Times Now. She moves seamlessly between profiling business leaders and telling the stories of everyday people, covering national developments just as effortlessly as the memes and conversations that dominate online culture. She also reports on real estate developments and civic challenges in major urban hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram. Her coverage frequently explores the struggles of startup founders, inspiring journeys of CEOs, and the experiences of candidates dealing with the complexities of visa processes. Kanishka holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism from Delhi University and a diploma from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. Rarely offline, she spends much of her time scrolling through X, LinkedIn, Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook in search of the next big story. When she finally logs off, she enjoys binge-watching shows and exploring cafes in pursuit of good food and better conversations.