Delhi NCR Weather Update: Temperature Dips To 7 Degrees, AQI Remains In Severe Category

Today feels better as there is no need to brave the dense fog and travel to work because it is Sunday.

Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to a cold and hazy Sunday morning as temperatures dropped to around 7 degrees Celsius. Thick fog covered several parts of the city, leading to very poor visibility on roads. At the same time, air pollution remained extremely high, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 471, placing it in the Severe+ category.

The situation worsened on Saturday itself when Delhi's air quality crossed the 400 mark. In response, authorities brought back Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to control pollution levels.

Air Pollution Worsens, GRAP Stage-IV Reimposed

According to official data, Delhi's AQI stood at 400 at around 4 pm on Saturday, which falls under the "Very Poor" category. However, pollution levels rose sharply within a few hours, and by evening, the AQI increased to 428, moving close to the Severe+ level. On Sunday morning, the overall AQI remained alarmingly high at 437.

Due to the sudden deterioration in air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decided to reimpose the strictest pollution control measures under GRAP Stage-IV across the NCR. These measures aim to reduce emissions from construction activities, vehicles, and industries.

Dense Fog Affects Visibility, Airport Issues Advisory

The combination of smog and dense fog reduced visibility across Delhi, impacting daily life and travel. Cold conditions also continued, with the city recording a minimum temperature of 4.4°C, keeping winter chills strong.

Delhi Airport issued an advisory for passengers, stating that low visibility procedures are currently in place. While flight operations are continuing as normal, passengers have been advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding schedules.

Weather Forecast for the Coming Days

18 January: Dense fog is expected during the morning, which may disrupt travel. Temperatures will range between 5°C and 22°C, with very high humidity.

19 January: Moderate fog is likely in the early hours. Temperatures may stay between 7°C and 22°C.

20 January: Morning and late-night fog will continue. Temperatures are expected to remain around 7°C to 22°C.

21 January: Foggy conditions will persist, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 20°C.

22 January: Morning fog is expected, followed by some improvement later in the day. Temperatures may range between 6°C and 21°C.

23 January: Moderate fog is likely again during early hours, with temperatures between 8°C and 19°C.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, follow pollution-related guidelines, and stay updated on weather and travel advisories.