In a surprising turn of weather, Delhi and the NCR were hit by dust storms and moderate rainfall on Thursday, providing much-needed relief from an intense heatwave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that thunderstorms and rain would continue through Friday, with a further dip in temperatures expected.

Thursday's maximum temperature was recorded around 39°C, while the minimum soared to 26°C, marking Delhi’s warmest April night in over three years breaking even Wednesday's record of 25.6°C. Previously, April minimum temperatures had not breached the 25-degree mark since 2022.

Accompanied by gusty winds and dust storms in Noida, Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida, the weather change stems from a Western Disturbance, according to IMD. The shift is expected to significantly reduce ongoing heatwave conditions. Despite the cool-down, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 243 (‘Poor’ category) at 9 am, per the Central Pollution Control Board.

Looking ahead, light rain or drizzle is forecast for April 12, followed by clear skies over the weekend.