Delhi's Air Quality Improves as Cold Winds Sweep Through

Delhi's air quality improved as cold northwesterly winds reduced pollution levels, lowering the AQI to 179. Temperatures dipped but remained above normal, with forecasts predicting further cooling. Fog reduced visibility, while the IMD warned of potential cold wave conditions in parts of northwest India by the year's end.

Delhi experienced a dip in temperature on Monday, accompanied by a notable improvement in air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to a moderate 179 at 8 am, a significant decrease from 225 recorded on Sunday afternoon. This shift was driven by cold northwesterly winds returning to the region after a recent western disturbance brought rainfall to the northwestern plains.

Despite the temperature decline, Monday’s minimum of 10.3°C remained four degrees above the seasonal average. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts further cooling, predicting a minimum of around 7°C by Tuesday. A shallow fog was observed early in the morning, reducing visibility to 600 meters at Safdarjung, a key indicator of Delhi’s weather.

Mahesh Palawat, vice president of Skymet Weather, noted that strong winds are expected to persist through December 31 and January 1, contributing to clearer skies and colder days. A new western disturbance is anticipated from January 2, potentially bringing further changes to weather patterns in the region.

While a cold wave is unlikely in Delhi, isolated areas of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh may experience cold wave conditions between December 31 and January 2. The IMD has also issued alerts for moderate to dense fog across the National Capital Region during the early morning hours.

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Residents can expect fluctuating temperatures as the winds continue to influence local conditions, providing relief from pollution but signaling colder days ahead.