A severe dust storm struck Delhi on April 11, 2025, causing major disruptions at Indira Gandhi International Airport. With strong winds and rain, over 200 flights were delayed, 50+ diverted, and several cancelled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Terminal congestion and minimal airline assistance sparked outrage, as social media flooded with complaints about the chaos. Ongoing runway maintenance worsened the situation, exposing the airport’s lack of preparedness for weather-related emergencies. Authorities are now facing criticism for poor crisis handling and communication during peak travel hours. Normal operations resumed gradually after weather conditions stabilized. (PC: OpIndia)    

A powerful dust storm struck Delhi-NCR for the second consecutive day, killing a 67-year-old man and injuring 3 others. The storm caused construction debris to fall in Chander Vihar and a signage pillar to collapse on a car in Gurugram. Over 15 flights were diverted due to poor weather, with airlines warning of delays. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert, forecasting winds up to 80 km/h, lightning, and light rain. Power outages and fallen trees disrupted traffic. Temperatures dropped, and air quality improved to ‘moderate’ with an AQI of 164. Thunderstorms may persist due to a western disturbance. (PC: PTI)

A powerful dust storm swept through Delhi, India, on Friday evening, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert until 9 PM. With winds expected to reach up to 80 km/h, at least 15 flights were diverted, and tree branches fell in multiple areas including Mandi House and Delhi Gate. Visuals showed low visibility and damage to vehicles. Thunderstorms, hail, and lightning are forecast across Delhi, NCR, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. Residents are advised to avoid open spaces due to risk of injury and damage to crops and property. This follows a similar storm on Thursday. (PC: PTI)

On April 10, 2025, lightning strikes and hailstorms claimed 25 lives across Bihar, with Nalanda alone reporting 18 deaths. Other affected districts included Siwan, Katihar, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, and Jehanabad. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar announced ₹4 lakh compensation for the victims’ families and urged residents to stay indoors during extreme weather. Meanwhile, Delhi witnessed light rain and overcast skies, bringing much-needed relief from soaring temperatures. The India Meteorological Department has predicted more rain, thunderstorms, and drizzle in the capital on April 11 and 12, advising people to remain cautious and updated on weather alerts. (PC: Hindustan Times)

During his recent visit to India, tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, known for his anti-aging endeavors, expressed deep concern over the country's severe air pollution. Despite using air purifiers and wearing an N95 mask, he experienced burning sensations in his eyes and throat, likening the experience to being "in the middle of a fire." Johnson highlighted that 83 of the world's 100 most polluted cities are in India and emphasized that improving air quality could benefit public health more than curing all cancers. He also noted the normalization of poor air quality among locals and the lack of widespread use of masks or air filters. (PC: AQLI & Business Today)

Forest fires triggered by jhum cultivation in Mizoram’s Archhuang village on March 11 have devastated nearly one-ninth of the 50 sq km Phawngpui National Park, officials confirmed. The blazes, controlled by March 28 with help from nearby villagers, impacted 19 locations including Mount Phawngpui’s northern face. Fortunately, no animal deaths were reported, though environmentalists fear long-term biodiversity loss. The park is the only Indian habitat of the endangered Mount Victoria Babax bird. Experts blame dry grass, climate shifts, and forest debris buildup. Activists warn of severe ecosystem damage, with some calling it the worst fire outbreak in decades. (PC: Hindustan Times)

On April 10, 2025, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted rainfall over Delhi-NCR, offering brief respite from ongoing scorching heat. Temperatures have hovered around 37°C to 39°C in recent days, but cloud cover and possible showers are expected to cool the region temporarily. However, the IMD issued a fresh alert warning of an intense heatwave beginning April 15, with temperatures forecasted to soar up to 44°C. Northern states like Punjab and Haryana are also likely to be affected. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated and prepare for rising temperatures after this short relief. (PC: Hindustan Times)

The UK is set for a "mini heatwave" this week, with temperatures reaching 22C. The Met Office says the country will see long hours of sunshine. Police have warned people to stay safe near open water. This comes after a 15-year-old boy drowned in a London park lake last week. An 11-year-old girl is also missing after entering the River Thames. Authorities say strong currents and cold water can be deadly. They urge people to swim only in safe, supervised areas. More warm weather is expected across southern and eastern England later this week. (PC: PA)

As of April 9, 2025, Kathmandu, Nepal, has topped the global pollution charts with a hazardous AQI of 262, surpassing major cities like Delhi (AQI 185), Hanoi (AQI 172), and Dhaka (AQI 171). The data reveals a concerning trend across South and Southeast Asia, where urban air quality continues to deteriorate due to vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, and dust from construction. Health officials in these cities have issued advisories urging residents to limit outdoor exposure as air pollution reaches dangerous levels, posing serious public health risks. (PC: Republic World)

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 41°C on Tuesday, 6°C above normal, marking the highest early April temperature since 2011. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert, forecasting similar heat on Wednesday with possible relief from Thursday due to thunderstorms. The Delhi Health Department released an advisory urging people to stay indoors from 12-3 pm, remain hydrated, eat seasonal fruits, and wear protective gear like sunglasses. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions are especially vulnerable. If temperatures exceed 40°C again on Wednesday, Delhi will officially enter a heatwave, the IMD said. (PC: ANI)