New Delhi, May 11. India's weather threw scientists for a loop on Monday as different parts of the country experienced wildly contrasting conditions on the same day. The Kashmir Valley reported unseasonal hail and snowfall while Rajasthan crossed 45°C.
Rare "mud rain" warning for Delhi
A yellow alert is in force for Delhi-NCR. The IMD has warned of dust storms with winds of 50-60 km/h and the rare possibility of "mud rain" — droplets that pick up suspended dust before falling, leaving vehicles, windows, and laundry coated in a film of mud.
Heat dome meets western disturbance
According to senior IMD scientists, the contrast is the result of an active western disturbance over the Himalayas colliding with a heat dome over Central India. The disturbance is dumping moisture and hail across Himalayan states, while hot air trapped beneath the dome is turning the plains into a furnace.
98 of the world's 100 hottest cities are in India
Global heat rankings currently place 98 of the world's 100 hottest cities in India. Health departments in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi have issued heat-stroke advisories. The elderly, children, and outdoor workers are urged to avoid going out between noon and 4 pm.