As winter tightens its grip on the capital, Delhi is experiencing a significant drop in temperatures accompanied by dense fog and high pollution levels. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of continued cold weather and poor air quality, making it essential for residents to prepare for the chill.
Current Weather Conditions
Delhi is currently facing freezing temperatures, exacerbated by recent rainfall. Following light showers on December 24, the temperature has plummeted to around 9 degrees Celsius, with residents relying on bonfires and warm clothing to combat the cold. The IMD forecasts that temperatures may continue to drop over the next few days, with a yellow alert issued for potential severe weather conditions.
Air Quality Index (AQI) Update
The air quality in Delhi remains a significant concern, with several areas recording alarming AQI levels. As of December 25, 2024, the AQI has been reported as follows:
| Area | AQI Level | Pollution Type |
|---|---|---|
| Anand Vihar | 363 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Mundka | 390 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Wazirpur | 384 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Jahangirpuri | 374 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| RK Puram | 357 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| ITO | 327 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Bawana | 360 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Vivek Vihar | 353 | PM 2.5 (High) |
| Narela | 325 | PM 2.5 (High) |
The overall AQI in Delhi is expected to remain above 400 in some areas, indicating hazardous air quality that poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Upcoming Weather Forecast by IMD
The IMD predicts that the cold wave will persist over the next few days, with further drops in temperature expected. The forecast includes:
- December 26: Light rain is anticipated, which may contribute to further cooling and increased fog.
- December 27: Moderate rain is expected along with thunderstorms and wind speeds of 30-40 km/h.
- December 28: Continued light to moderate rainfall is likely.
Visibility is expected to be severely affected due to dense fog, with reports indicating visibility could drop below 50 meters in some areas.
Impact of Snowfall in Northern Regions
Heavy snowfall in the higher Himalayan regions has also contributed to the cold wave affecting Delhi and its neighboring areas. Reports indicate that temperatures in these regions have dropped significantly, leading to road closures and challenging travel conditions.
Conclusion
As Delhi grapples with severe cold and high pollution levels, residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the weather conditions. With ongoing rain and snow in surrounding areas, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed about weather updates and air quality forecasts.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is based on current weather reports and forecasts from reliable sources.
