Air Quality in Delhi Remains ‘Very Poor’: Caution Advised

As Thursday unfolded, the Delhi NCR region continued to grapple with a relentless cold wave and thick fog, prompting the weather department to issue an orange alert. This alert serves as a cautionary measure, signaling that authorities should be prepared for any situation arising from severe weather conditions.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s maximum temperature for the day is expected to reach around 18 degrees Celsius, with the minimum hovering at approximately 5 degrees Celsius. The morning witnessed a significant reduction in visibility, dropping to 50 meters in some areas due to dense fog.

The IMD extended the orange alert to include Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, where similar weather conditions prevailed. The forecast indicates the persistence of the cold wave and cold day conditions in these states for the next few days.

Air Quality in Delhi Remains ‘Very Poor’: Caution Advised

Amidst the challenging weather, the air quality in Delhi continues to be categorized as ‘very poor,’ with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 338. Anticipating further deterioration in the coming days due to low wind speed and high humidity, authorities have issued advisories urging people to refrain from outdoor activities and use masks when venturing outside.

Mild Sunshine Offers Respite Despite Extreme Cold

Despite the intense cold gripping Delhi-NCR, the presence of mild sunshine during the day provides some relief from the frigid temperatures. However, mornings and evenings remain exceptionally cold, prompting residents to seek refuge indoors or gather around bonfires for warmth.

Extended Forecast: Persistent Cold Weather and Dense Fog

Looking ahead, the weather forecast suggests the persistence of cold weather in the coming days, with dense fog affecting not only Delhi but also regions in Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, and North-West Madhya Pradesh. Various degrees of fog are also reported in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Bihar, Chandigarh, and north-western Rajasthan.

Notably, specific areas, including Patiala, Chandigarh, Hisar, Ambala, Bareilly, and Gwalior, have experienced zero visibility due to the dense fog. As the situation evolves, residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions to navigate the challenging conditions.