NEW DELHI / JAIPUR — A powerful western disturbance has triggered a major weather shift across Northwest India, bringing torrential rains and intense dust storms to Rajasthan while putting Delhi-NCR on a high alert for the next 72 hours.

Rajasthan: Intense Storms and Heavy Showers

A strong meteorological system swept across Rajasthan on Saturday, May 2, providing relief from scorching temperatures but creating significant disruptions.

• Impacted Areas: High-velocity dust storms and rainfall hit Jaipur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Kota, and Bharatpur.

• Destruction: In Jaipur, heavy evening storms uprooted trees and stalled traffic.

• Nutrient Rainfall: Bikaner recorded the highest rainfall at 12.8 mm, followed by Ajmer at 5.7 mm.

• Heat Contrast: Despite the rain elsewhere, western regions like Jaisalmer and Phalodi remained scorched, recording maximum temperatures of 44.4°C.

Delhi-NCR: Yellow Alert Issued

While Delhi remained largely clear through Saturday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert starting today, Sunday, May 3.

• Sunday Forecast: A spell of very light to light rain is expected in the afternoon or evening, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 30–40 km/h (gusting up to 50 km/h).

• Extended Outlook: Similar conditions—including moderate to heavy rainfall in some pockets—are forecast for Monday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 5.

• Temperature Drop: The maximum temperature in the capital is expected to settle between 36°C and 38°C, offering a brief respite from recent heatwave conditions.

Regional Impact and Advisory

The IMD warns that this western disturbance, combined with easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal, will affect nearly 15 states across North, East, and South India through May 4.

Safety Guidelines:

• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel during active storms and dust storms.

• Shelter: Stay indoors and avoid standing under trees or near water bodies during lightning.

• Property: Secure loose objects to prevent damage from high-velocity winds.

The unstable weather is expected to persist in Rajasthan until at least May 6, while Delhi should see clearing skies by late next week.