A shocking video from Bareilly has gone viral after a man was seen being thrown into the air during a powerful dust storm, once again drawing attention to the growing frequency of extreme weather events across India.
The footage, widely shared on social media, shows the man desperately holding onto a tin shade as violent winds swept through the area. Within seconds, the structure began shaking uncontrollably before the man was lifted several feet into the air and flung to the ground. The dramatic visuals triggered alarm online, with many users expressing concern over the increasing intensity of storms in northern India.
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Meteorologists say such dust storms are common during the pre-monsoon season, especially when extreme heat creates sharp pressure differences in the atmosphere. As warm air rises rapidly, cooler air rushes in to replace it, producing powerful gusts capable of carrying dust, debris and lightweight structures through the air.
Experts also point to rising temperatures across northern India in recent years. Rapid urbanisation, shrinking green cover and prolonged heatwaves may be intensifying local weather conditions and making storms more severe.
Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that India is witnessing a rise in extreme weather events, including heatwaves, sudden heavy rainfall and intense storms. According to experts, warmer air holds more moisture and energy, increasing the strength of weather systems. Dry soil caused by prolonged heat can also be easily swept into the atmosphere during strong winds, resulting in severe dust storms.
However, scientists caution against directly linking a single weather event to climate change. Instead, they say the broader pattern of increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather aligns with global climate projections.
Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open areas, metal structures and temporary shelters during high winds.
