New Delhi: In a sudden change of weather, a thick layer of clouds covered Delhi and strong dust winds swept through the nation’s capital and its surrounding areas on Friday evening.There was substantial damage in and around the city, and some flights to and from Indira Gandhi International airport were affected due to the inclement weather, with passengers being advised to contact their respective airlines.So much so that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert, predicting rain and moderate to severe thunderstorm activity, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds – not only in Delhi, but adjoining areas of National Capital Region (NCR), Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh — until at least 9 pm.In several parts of Delhi, including Mandi House and Delhi Gate, trees got uprooted or branches fell on streets due to the strong winds.Visuals of a motorcycle crushed under a fallen tree trunk surfaced online, as traffic was disrupted in other locations due to various debris on the roads. People returning from work were heavily inconvenienced.The weather department has advised residents to take necessary precautions and avoid staying in open areas during this period, as possible hailstorms may cause injuries to people and livestock. Vulnerable structures could suffer partial damage, while strong winds and hail may also lead to potential damage to plantations, agricultural produce, and standing crops.
