Red alert in Delhi as capital taken by storm

Strong dust storms and gusty winds followed by rain hit the national capital on Friday evening, causing trees to be uprooted in several parts of Delhi-NCR.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, which indicates that residents should "be prepared" and "take action" as per its colour-coded advisory.

The IMD recommended that people stay indoors, secure windows and doors, and avoid unnecessary travel, among other things.

According to the IMD, wind speed data showed that IGI Airport reported gusts of wind at 74 kmph, Pragati Maidan at 70 kmph, and Lodhi Road at 69 kmph. Wind speeds ranged from 37 kmph in Najafgarh to 56 kmph in Safdarjung.

Civic bodies have received more than 20 calls on uprooted trees in several parts, including Feroz Shah Road, Ashoka Road, Mandi House, and Connaught Place, and it led to traffic congestion.

Thunderstorms led to power disruptions in several parts of the city, primarily due to trees and branches falling on electricity cables. An electric pole has also fallen at ITO.