Dust Storm In Mumbai, IMD Issues Thunderstorm Warning
A dust storm swept through Mumbai on Friday afternoon, significantly reducing visibility and causing disruptions in daily activities, including traffic and local train services. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sin issued a thunderstorm warning for the Maharashtra capital, predicting light rain and gusty winds in the coming hours.
In its latest ‘Nowcast’ alert, the IMD stated, “Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and light spells of rain with gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph are very likely to occur at isolated places in Mumbai over the next 3-4 hours.” The agency has advised residents to exercise caution while stepping out.
The sudden dust storm was attributed to a cyclonic circulation affecting Maharashtra, which has resulted in gloomy weather conditions across the state over the past few days.
The storm led to major disruptions, particularly in the city’s local train network. Central Railway officials reported that strong winds blew off a corrugated sheet roof, which then struck overhead wires near Atgaon station, located between Kasara and Kalyan, around 60 km from Mumbai. This incident, which occurred around 3:15 pm, affected mainline train services.
Road traffic was also impacted as dust clouds significantly reduced visibility, making driving hazardous. Several commuters and motorists took to social media to share videos of the dust storm and its effects on the city.
The IMD has predicted that the city may receive much-needed showers, which could provide temporary relief from the sweltering heat gripping Mumbai. Earlier this week, certain parts of the city experienced light rainfall, which marginally lowered temperatures.
Meteorologists have advised citizens to stay indoors during intense dust storms and take precautions against strong winds and potential rainfall.
As Mumbai grapples with unpredictable weather conditions, authorities remain on alert to address any further disruptions caused by the storm.
