Massive dust storm hits Rajasthan; visibility drops to almost zero
What's the story
A massive dust storm hit the Churu district of Rajasthan on Monday. The storm reduced visibility to near zero, disrupting traffic movement on highways. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier predicted an intensification of pre-monsoon activity across parts of the state from June 16. This includes thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and scattered rainfall, which are expected to provide relief from hot and humid conditions.
Twitter Post
Wall of dust in Shekhawati
#WATCH | Rajasthan: A storm kicks up a wall of dust in Shekhawati, this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/iSKehnC11Q
— ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) June 15, 2026
Weather patterns
Rain, thunderstorms in eastern Rajasthan
The weather activity in Rajasthan has intensified over the last two days. Light to moderate rain and thunderstorms were reported from several districts in eastern Rajasthan, while isolated showers were recorded in western parts of the state. An active western disturbance, along with moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea, is influencing these weather conditions across Rajasthan.
District impact
Relief from heatwave conditions
Several districts, including Ajmer, Kota, Tonk, Dausa and Chittorgarh have witnessed rain and dust storms as the system strengthened. A fast-moving wall of sand tore through parts of Rajasthan last week, tinting the sky orange-brown and halting traffic. Streets in and around Bikaner saw visibility collapse within minutes. The storm also reached neighboring areas such as Churu, Hanumangarh, Nagaur, Sikar, and Sri Ganganagar.