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Delhi's Air Party Ends: Poor Quality Returns After 100 Days
23 Oct
Summary
- Delhi experienced its first poor air quality day in 100 days on Wednesday.
- A record run of clean air extended into late October, the farthest since 2015.
- Factors like stubble burning and Diwali firecrackers are expected to worsen air quality.
Delhi experienced its first poor air-quality day in 100 days on Wednesday, concluding a remarkable period of relatively clean air. This extended spell of better-than-poor AQI lasted until October 20th, the farthest into the post-monsoon season since Air Quality Index records started in 2015.
This year's clean-air run was notable for its duration and the limited number of poor-air days between June 1 and October 20. Favorable weather patterns, including regular rain spells and unusually high temperatures in early October, played a significant role in maintaining cleaner air. Government efforts to control dust also contributed.
However, conditions have shifted. Temperatures have dropped, winds are slow, and rain chances are minimal. The upcoming Diwali, coupled with the peak stubble-burning season in neighboring states, is predicted to severely degrade air quality. Experts warn that satellite data may underestimate stubble burning, suggesting a significant worsening of air quality is imminent.
