Dust Storm of the Century

At 4 pm yesterday, it was sweltering hot. At 115 degrees Fahrenheit, it was probably the hottest day here. Not only was it hot, but it was also humid, as it had rained briefly yesterday. The AIESEC office being locked, we decided to walk to a nearby temple, eager for something to do on our day off. As we headed over there, the sky went from being white and cloudless to a sandy color with clouds beginning to appear. After seeing what looked like the Apocalypse to us, we decided to reschedule the temple visit, and head home quick. Meanwhile, it began. Winds picked up, and dust and sand began collecting in the air. The sky, still looking sandy, had quite a few clouds now. Slightly scared, and definitely awe-struck by the series of events of the past fifteen minutes, Andy and I started walking briskly, trying to catch a rickshaw as fast as possible. We finally did, and were on our way back.

As we drove towards home, the dust storm seemed to gain strength. Powerful gusts of wind were followed collections of sand and dust, lightly pelting our legs through the open rickshaw. I had dust in my eyes, ears, and mouth, as I observed what was going on around me. Cows, usually relaxed and casually walking around, were now running as fast as the could, much to my amusement, across main roads, trying I assume to find areas of shelter. Branches were falling from trees, as dust and sand continued to spiral around Baroda, wreaking havoc in Baroda. It was truly a sight to see. We reached home at last, and saw the remaining mangoes fall from the tree nearby. The power went out shortly after.

And then the rains began.