After enduring an unrelenting stretch of scorching temperatures for several months, Delhi found itself at the mercy of sudden and violent weather on Monday. What began as another blistering day with temperatures hovering near 40°C took a dramatic turn by evening, plunging the city and its suburbs into dust storms and thunderstorms. This abrupt shift left residents overwhelmed, with many struggling to cope with the chaos that ensued.

As evening approached, the skies over Delhi darkened ominously. Between 7:45 PM and 8:30 PM, powerful winds tore through the city, bringing with them walls of dust that reduced visibility and caused momentary panic. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), wind speeds ranged from 41 to 79 kilometers per hour, strong enough to uproot trees, damage vehicles, and disrupt outdoor activities. The once oppressive heat gave way to a scene of turbulence and confusion.

This weather upheaval was not random. Meteorologists explained that a low-pressure system had developed over Haryana and its adjoining regions, destabilizing the atmosphere and triggering the storm. Such systems are capable of pulling warm, moisture-laden air into their centers, leading to sudden downpours and gusty winds. While these events offer temporary relief from the heat, they also bring their own set of challenges.

The combination of intense wind and sudden rain led to widespread waterlogging in many parts of the city. Streets quickly turned into streams, and poorly drained areas saw significant pooling of water. Traffic snarled to a halt in several localities as vehicles struggled to wade through flooded roads. For daily commuters and shopkeepers, the unexpected deluge proved especially disruptive, adding hours to their routines.

Residents, already drained by the unrelenting summer, found themselves ill-prepared for this jarring twist. Many had not anticipated such an intense weather event and were caught outdoors when the storm hit. Power outages were reported in some areas, and damage to property was observed in isolated incidents. The sudden transformation of the city’s climate in just a few hours served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of weather in northern India during the pre-monsoon season.

While some welcomed the drop in temperature, most were left to deal with the mess left behind. The authorities urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions stabilize. With more such erratic weather patterns expected in the coming weeks, residents of Delhi are bracing for a turbulent transition from summer to monsoon.