Delhi NCR Weather Update: Temperature to Touch 21 Degrees, AQI Remains In Severe Category

Air quality in the national capital worsened sharply on Monday morning as dense fog and cold wave conditions continued to affect the region.

Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to 418, falling into the 'severe' category at 7 am on January 19, 2026, raising serious health concerns for residents.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), pollution levels spiked across the city, with more than 30 areas recording AQI readings in the red zone. Poor dispersion of pollutants due to cold weather and fog contributed to the sharp decline in air quality.

Flights Delayed as Pollution Levels Rise Across Key Areas

The combination of thick fog and severe pollution led to flight delays at Indira Gandhi International Airport, causing inconvenience to travellers. Several central and high-traffic areas recorded dangerously high AQI levels.

Rafi Marg reported an AQI of 417, while the ITO area saw levels touch 434, both under the 'severe' category. Air quality around India Gate and nearby locations also crossed the 400 mark, significantly reducing visibility and impacting daily movement.

In response to the worsening conditions, authorities reintroduced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These stricter pollution control measures were enforced as a precaution, with officials warning that air quality could deteriorate further in the coming days.

AQI Remains Critical Across Several Parts of Delhi

Several parts of the city recorded extremely high AQI levels on Monday morning. Chandni Chowk registered an AQI of 500, while Jahangirpuri recorded 428. Other areas with poor air quality included Anand Vihar (661), Bawana (356), Vivek Vihar (411), North Campus (413), Patparganj (404), Siri Fort (373), Okhla Phase 2 (330), and Sri Aurobindo Marg (262).

Health experts have advised people, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities during severe pollution hours.

Air Quality and Weather Outlook for Coming Days

Forecasts suggest that Delhi's air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category until January 21, 2026. The outlook for the following six days indicates air quality ranging between poor and very poor, offering little immediate relief.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a partly cloudy sky on Monday and issued a yellow alert due to moderate fog across many parts of the city. Dense fog is expected at isolated locations during morning hours. From January 20 to January 24, shallow to moderate fog is likely to continue, along with similar weather conditions.

Pollution Levels High in NCR Cities

Neighbouring NCR cities also recorded alarming AQI levels. Ghaziabad reported an AQI of 516, while Noida and Gurugram recorded AQIs of 622 and 426, respectively, indicating widespread pollution across the region.

Authorities have urged residents to follow pollution advisories, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official channels as air quality conditions continue to remain critical.