Delhi Experiences Cold Weather And Light Showers At 9.6 Degrees Celsius

On Monday, Delhi experienced a continuation of its cold weather, with light showers across the city and the temperature dipping to 9.6 degrees Celsius early in the morning, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The day began with improved visibility due to a reduction in fog, contrasting the dense fog that had enveloped the capital over the preceding weekend. The city saw varying amounts of rainfall in its different parts between 5.30 am and 8.30 am, with Najafgarh witnessing 2.5 mm, Pitampura 2 mm, Palam 1 mm, and Pusa 0.5 mm of rainfall.

The IMD anticipates light rain to continue throughout the day, underlining a generally cloudy sky. This weather update comes after a challenging weekend of zero visibility for nine hours on Saturday, causing significant disruptions to flights and train services. Moreover, the visibility at Safdarjung and Palam was recorded at 300 metres at 5.30 am, indicating a slight improvement from the dense fog conditions that had previously led to the cancellation and diversion of flights and delays in train schedules.

Delhi's primary weather station, the Safdarjung observatory, noted a minimum temperature of 9.6 degrees Celsius at 8.30 am, which is 2.7 degrees above the normal for this season. This temperature reading showcases a slight increase, providing a mild relief from the intense cold experienced during the weekend. Additionally, the IMD has issued a 'yellow' warning for dense fog, cautioning residents and travelers about the potential for poor visibility conditions that may persist.

The air quality in Delhi, as measured by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 9 am, was identified as 'very poor' with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 320. The AQI scale categorizes air quality levels from 'good' to 'severe', with Delhi's current status indicating a significant need for air quality improvement measures. In response to the fluctuating pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) rescinded restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Sunday, thanks to the dip in pollution levels attributed to favorable weather conditions, including increased wind speed. However, measures under Stage 1 and Stage 2 of GRAP remain enforced across Delhi-NCR to mitigate air pollution.

As the city navigates through these cold and foggy conditions, the gradual improvement in weather and air quality brings a sense of relief to its residents. With the IMD's ongoing weather forecasts and the efforts of CAQM to manage air quality, Delhi is on a path to overcoming the environmental challenges it currently faces.