The MeT issued a ‘red alert’ in several districts with predictions of light to moderate rain accompanied with thunderstorm, dust storms and gusty winds

After persistent summer heat and high humidity over the past few days, a massive dust storm signalled a sudden change in Delhi-NCR on Wednesday.

The MeT issued a ‘red alert’ in several districts with predictions of light to moderate rain accompanied with thunderstorm, dust storms and gusty winds. But, as skies became overcast, heavy rain lashed several parts of the city while some areas also experienced hailstorms.

Airport authorities have declared an ‘Aircraft on Ground’ situation due to inclement weather, which means flights cannot be used due to technical difficulties. Wind speeds ranging between 35 kmph and 79 kmph were reported from Palam and Safdarjung.

Flight operations were impacted at the Delhi airport due to heavy rains and thunderstorms. Delhi airport operator DIAL said flight operations may be impacted due to inclement weather conditions and thunderstorms in the national capital.

“Our flight schedules are currently impacted due to the heavy rains and thunderstorm sweeping across Delhi, Chandigarh and Kolkata,” IndiGo said in a post on X.

Air India, in a post on X, said rain and thunderstorms may disrupt flights to/from Delhi this evening.

“Due to bad weather (thunderstorm with heavy rain) in Delhi (DEL), all departures/ arrivals and their consequential flights may get affected. Additionally, traffic movement to the airport might be affected.