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Delhi Freezes: Record Low Temps & Smog Grip Capital
10 Jan
Summary
- Delhi recorded its lowest minimum temperature in two years at 4.6°C.
- The city experienced its highest-ever winter power demand of 6,087MW.
- Cold and humidity trapped pollutants, resulting in 'very poor' air quality.
The Capital shivered through an unusually cold morning on Friday, January 10, 2026, as the minimum temperature dropped to a season-low of 4.6°C. This marks the coldest January day in two years, with the last comparable temperature of 3.5°C recorded on January 16, 2024. The sharp dip in temperature was accompanied by a significant surge in electricity consumption, as the city's peak power demand reached an all-time high of 6,087MW, breaching the 6,000MW threshold for the first time in winter.
The frigid conditions and high humidity created a perfect storm for air pollution. A dense layer of haze formed, trapping pollutants close to the ground and pushing the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 345, classified as 'very poor'. This is a stark increase from the previous day's 'poor' AQI of 280. Meteorologists attribute this to particulate pollutants adhering to water vapor, becoming heavier and denser in the lower atmosphere.
Light rainfall in surrounding areas on Thursday night introduced significant moisture into the air, contributing to the haze and fog. While visibility remained adequate for air travel with no flight cancellations, approximately 450 flights experienced delays. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Saturday, forecasting moderate to dense fog in some areas. Temperatures are expected to range between 5-7°C for the minimum and 16-18°C for the maximum.
