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Delhi Chills: Mercury Plummets to 3.2°C Amidst Poor Air Quality
12 Jan
Summary
- Delhi's minimum temperature dropped to 3.2°C, 4.2 degrees below normal.
- Cold wave conditions are expected to continue for at least two more days.
- Air quality remains poor and is predicted to worsen to 'very poor'.
A biting cold wave has gripped Delhi, with the minimum temperature at Safdarjung observatory plummeting to 3.2°C on Monday, a stark 4.2 degrees below the seasonal average. This chilly spell is expected to continue for at least two more days, exacerbating the already poor air quality, which is forecast to deteriorate into the 'very poor' category.
The harsh weather conditions are attributed to persistent cold northwesterly winds combined with clear skies, which allow for rapid temperature drops after sunset. Similar freezing temperatures were recorded across the city, with Palam at 3.3°C and Lodhi Road at 3°C. This marks a significant dip, though it falls short of January's historical lows.
On Sunday, the air quality index (AQI) stood at 298, classified as 'poor'. The India Meteorological Department confirmed that multiple weather stations met the criteria for a cold wave. Residents are advised to brace for continued icy winds and low temperatures until at least Wednesday.
