Delhi's Air Quality Hits 'Poor' Category; Light Rain And Fog Expected This Week

Delhi Weather Update: Delhi is experiencing a rise in pollution levels, with air quality falling into the "poor" category. The weather department forecasts partial clouds on Monday and the possibility of light fog in the morning, which could worsen pollution. A western disturbance is expected to bring light rain to some parts of Delhi on Wednesday and Thursday.

Warm Weather and Pollution Surge

On Sunday, Delhi saw a temperature increase of 4.2 degree C above the average, leading to warmer conditions. After a few days of relief, pollution levels spiked again due to lower wind speeds and morning smog, which affected air quality across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The air quality reached the higher end of the "poor" category.

Air Quality Likely to Worsen

The air quality is expected to worsen further. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality could reach the "very poor" category on Monday. Pollution levels are expected to remain in the "poor" range for the next couple of days, with no immediate relief in sight.

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Air Index Levels: Delhi and NCR

The Air Index for Delhi on Sunday was recorded at 294, placing it in the "poor" category, just six points away from the "very poor" range. Prior to that, on February 11, Delhi’s Air Index was 293, and on February 12, it was 212. Despite some improvements, the Air Index has increased again.

Greater Noida Records the Lowest Air Index in the Moderate Range

IQAir reported that, between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM on Sunday, the Air Index for Delhi reached 384, which is considered "very poor." The air quality slightly improved during the afternoon, with the Air Index reducing to 221 from midnight until 9 PM. In NCR, Gurgaon had the highest Air Index at 304, indicating "very poor" air quality, while Greater Noida recorded the lowest at 198 in the "moderate" range.

Forecast: Light Rain and Temperature Fluctuations

On Sunday, Delhi's maximum temperature was recorded at 28.6 degree C, and the minimum temperature was 9.9 degree C, which is slightly below average. For Monday, the maximum temperature is expected to be 29 degree C, with a minimum of 11 degree C. Winds are expected to pick up on Tuesday, with speeds of 20-25 km/h, lowering the temperature by about 2 degree C. On Wednesday and Thursday, light rain is predicted in some parts of Delhi due to the western disturbance.

Air Quality in NCR Cities

Here’s the latest air quality index for cities in NCR, as per CPCB and IQAir: