Delhi sees highest minimum temperature this year, air quality remains poor
Delhi records highest minimum temperature of the year as Air Quality stays poor
Delhi recorded its highest minimum temperature of the year on Wednesday, with the mercury not dropping below 15.4°C. This is three degrees above normal, as the usual temperature for this time of the year is lower. On Tuesday, the minimum temperature was 11.7°C, meaning there was a significant jump overnight.
Meanwhile, the air quality in the city remained poor. At 9 AM on Wednesday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 218, which falls in the "poor" category. The previous day, on Tuesday, the AQI had already deteriorated to 208, after enjoying a few days of relatively cleaner air.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) explained that the rising temperatures and worsening air quality were due to a western disturbance affecting northwest India. As a result, the wind speed has slowed down, and this is expected to cause cloudy weather. The IMD has also predicted scattered light rain on Thursday and Friday, which could help bring down pollution levels temporarily.
Rising temperature trends
On Tuesday, the maximum temperature was recorded at 29.1°C. The IMD expects that the temperatures may rise further in the coming days, reaching between 28°C and 30°C. Earlier this month, on February 11, Delhi recorded its highest maximum temperature of the year so far—29.7°C.
Meteorologists have explained that western disturbances are the reason for these sudden weather changes. These disturbances slow down wind speed, increase cloud cover, and cause temperature fluctuations. According to Mahesh Palawat, Vice President of the private weather forecasting agency Skymet Weather, these disturbances create conditions that trap heat and lead to a rise in both minimum and maximum temperatures.
This weather pattern is not unusual for this time of year, but the increase in air pollution is a growing concern. The city's air quality had shown signs of improvement in the past week. However, with slower winds, pollutants in the air are not dispersing quickly, leading to a deterioration in air quality.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) had earlier lifted Stage 2 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Monday. This decision was made after six days of moderate air quality, during which pollution levels had dropped. However, just a day later, pollution levels began to rise again.
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Delhi's air quality has been a major issue in recent years, especially in winter. Vehicular emissions, construction dust, burning of waste, and weather conditions all contribute to pollution. While air quality improved slightly in mid-February, the slow wind speed has now caused pollutants to settle in the air, making breathing conditions worse.
Health experts warn that poor air quality can cause respiratory issues, especially for children, the elderly, and those with lung conditions like asthma. People are advised to limit outdoor activities and use masks if necessary.
Expected rain and weather changes
The IMD has predicted that scattered light rain could occur on Thursday and Friday due to the western disturbance. This could temporarily improve air quality by washing away pollutants from the air. However, experts believe that rain alone will not be a long-term solution to Delhi’s pollution problems.
As March approaches, temperatures are expected to rise further, marking the transition from winter to summer. Higher temperatures often bring stronger winds, which may help in reducing pollution levels. However, until then, Delhi residents will have to cope with fluctuating weather and poor air quality.
Delhi recorded its highest minimum temperature of the year at 15.4°C on Wednesday, showing a sudden jump from the previous day. The city's air quality remains poor, with an AQI of 218, as wind speed has slowed down due to a western disturbance. The maximum temperature is expected to rise further in the coming days, possibly reaching 30°C.
Meteorologists predict scattered rain on Thursday and Friday, which may provide some temporary relief from pollution. However, with pollution levels rising again, authorities and residents need to remain cautious about air quality and health concerns.
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