A sudden and powerful dust storm struck Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday evening, bringing much-needed relief from scorching heat but also causing chaos and destruction. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a warning about the storm earlier in the day, but its intensity surprised many residents.
What Happened?
The storm brought strong winds gusting up to 70 kilometers per hour, along with dust, thunder, and even some rain. These conditions caused widespread disruption. Trees were uprooted, buildings were damaged, and power outages were reported across the region. Sadly, there were also reports of casualties and injuries.
Impacts of the Dust Storm
- Traffic Disruptions: The heavy dust and low visibility caused by the storm made driving dangerous and led to traffic snarls across Delhi and NCR.
- Flight Diversions: The dust storm also impacted air travel, with several flights being diverted from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
- Damage to Property: Strong winds caused widespread damage to property. Trees were uprooted, causing damage to vehicles and buildings. Flying debris also posed a danger to people and property.
- Power Outages: The storm also caused power outages in many parts of Delhi and NCR. This can be disruptive for homes and businesses, especially during the hot summer months.
- Health Concerns: Dust storms can aggravate respiratory problems like asthma and allergies. People with these conditions should take precautions to protect themselves during dust storms, such as staying indoors and wearing a mask if they must go outside.
What to Do During a Dust Storm
- Stay Indoors: If you are caught outside during a dust storm, the safest place to be is indoors. Close all windows and doors to keep out dust and debris.
- Avoid Sheltering Under Trees: During a storm, trees can be uprooted or branches can break off, so avoid seeking shelter under them.
- Cover Your Mouth and Nose: If you must go outside, wear a mask or cloth to cover your mouth and nose to protect yourself from dust inhalation.
- Drive with Caution: If you are driving during a dust storm, slow down and use your headlights. Visibility can be severely reduced, so it is important to drive cautiously.
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather advisories from the IMD and local authorities. This will help you stay informed about the latest forecast and warnings.
After the Storm
- Be Careful of Damaged Power Lines: Downed power lines can be extremely dangerous. Do not touch them or go near them.
- Report Damage: If your property has been damaged by the storm, report it to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Help Others: If you are able to help others who have been affected by the storm, please do so.
Dust storms can be a dangerous and disruptive phenomenon. By following these tips, you can stay safe and informed during a dust storm.