Delhi Shivers Under Cold Wave and Poor Air Quality: Light Rain Expected

As temperatures dip to 11.4°C and AQI remains in the ‘very poor’ category, Delhiites brace for chilly winds, dense fog, and predicted light rain.

New Delhi, January 6: Delhi continues to grapple with cold wave conditions, dense fog, and poor air quality, as temperatures dipped to 11.4°C early on Monday morning, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The city also witnessed chilly winds and a forecast predicting a “generally cloudy sky with light rain” throughout the day.

Chilly Weather and Shelter Crisis

As the biting cold persists, many homeless individuals have taken refuge in night shelters across the city. Night shelters at Yamuna Bazar, Kashmere Gate, and near AIIMS were seen fully occupied.

To address the crisis, the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has set up 235 pagoda tents across key areas such as AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and Nizamuddin flyover to ensure that vulnerable residents have a place to stay warm.

Residents were seen gathering around bonfires to combat the icy winds, while night shelters continued to serve as a crucial support system amid the dipping mercury.

Poor Air Quality Persists

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 316 at 6 AM, keeping it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) recently lifted Stage-III restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) following a slight improvement in air quality. However, Stage-I and Stage-II measures will remain in place.

“Favorable meteorological conditions and better wind speed have contributed to improved air quality. AQI levels are expected to remain in the ‘poor’ category in the coming days,” CAQM stated in an official release.

Fog and Chill in Neighboring States

The cold wave has also impacted Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad, where temperatures plummeted, and a dense fog layer engulfed the city. Many residents have sought refuge in temporary shelter homes provided by local authorities.

Weather Forecast and Precautions

The IMD predicts that Delhi’s minimum temperature will hover around 11°C, with a maximum temperature expected to touch 18°C. A possibility of light rain remains on the radar, which could slightly improve the air quality but also intensify the chill.

As Delhiites brace for another freezing week, authorities continue to urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, use public transport, and follow precautionary health measures amid poor air quality and cold wave conditions.