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Delhi's Air Cleans Up: Rare Rain Brings Best October in 4 Years
31 Oct
Summary
- Heavy rain provided Delhi its cleanest October air in four years.
- Friday's maximum temperature of 20.7°C was the lowest October reading since 1951.
- The unseasonal rainfall was caused by Cyclone Arnab interacting with a western disturbance.
Delhi's air quality saw a dramatic improvement on Friday, achieving its cleanest October day in four years with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 60, categorized as 'satisfactory'. This significant reduction in pollution was driven by heavy, unseasonal rainfall, the sixth-highest 24-hour downpour recorded for October since 1951. The city also recorded its lowest October maximum temperature in records dating back to 1951, with the mercury reaching only 20.7°C.
The rare weather phenomenon was attributed to the interaction of Cyclone Arnab with a western disturbance, which brought abundant moisture to the region. Meteorologists noted an unusual convergence of weather systems contributing to the unsettled conditions across northern and eastern India. This spell of rain and thunderstorms has led to a notable drop in pollution levels, with the AQI falling 162 points from the previous day's 'poor' rating.
As these weather systems move away, temperatures are expected to rise, with daytime conditions improving. The current average for October is already the cleanest on record since 2015. The substantial rainfall has also made this October the fourth-wettest at Safdarjung station since 1951, marking a significant departure from typical October weather patterns.
