What was the minimum temperature in Delhi on January 10, 2026?

On January 10, 2026, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6°C, the lowest of the season and the coldest January reading in two years.

Why is Delhi's air quality poor during the cold weather?

Low temperatures and high humidity trap pollutants near the ground, creating a layer of haze and leading to a 'very poor' air quality index.

What was Delhi's peak power demand during the cold snap?

Delhi's peak power demand reached an unprecedented 6,087MW on January 10, 2026, marking the highest winter demand ever recorded.

Home / Weather / Delhi Freezes: Record Low Temps & Smog Grip Capital

Delhi Freezes: Record Low Temps & Smog Grip Capital

10 Jan

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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.

Delhi Freezes: Record Low Temps & Smog Grip Capital

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.