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Published : 31 May 2026, 12:52 PM
A massive dust storm has swept across Bikaner in India's Rajasthan state, engulfing the city in thick clouds of dust and sharply reducing visibility, NDTV reports.
The storm struck Bikaner on Saturday afternoon, with videos circulating online showing a towering wall of yellow dust moving towards the city and turning daylight into near-darkness, according to the Indian outlet.
The dust storm blanketed major roads in a dense haze and cast a yellow-brown glow across the city, making travel difficult and prompting many residents to take shelter indoors.
Several areas witnessed panic as dust-laden winds intensified.
Video: Massive Dust Storm Plunges Rajasthan's Bikaner Into Near-Darkness https://t.co/Rg7I8Ans9r pic.twitter.com/6Ng225RSax
— NDTV (@ndtv) May 30, 2026
Markets were disrupted as shopkeepers rushed to pull down shutters while pedestrians scrambled for cover from the storm.
Strong winds also reportedly snapped tree branches and caused localised power outages in parts of the city.
India's Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.
The report said thunderstorms and rainfall were recorded in several districts of Rajasthan over the previous 24 hours.
The highest rainfall of 58mm was recorded in Bari in Dholpur district.
The Meteorological Centre in Jaipur has forecast intense thunderstorms and squally weather, with wind speeds of 60-70 kilometres per hour, across parts of the Bikaner, Jaipur, Ajmer, Bharatpur, Kota, Jodhpur and Udaipur divisions on Saturday.
Heavy rainfall is also likely in isolated areas, while hailstorms and lightning may occur in some places.
The cycle of afternoon thunderstorms and rainfall is expected to continue in parts of Rajasthan for the next four to five days, the report said.
