Delhi residents woke up to a cold and foggy Sunday morning, as north India continues to experience chilly weather conditions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius, accompanied by moderate fog that reduced visibility in several areas. The air quality index (AQI), which had worsened over the past few days, showed some improvement, moving to the ‘poor’ category, although pockets of the city continued to experience very poor air quality levels.

The weather in Delhi has been unusually cold for this time of the year, with Saturday recording the coldest morning of the season. Safdarjung, the city’s base station for meteorological data, noted a minimum temperature of 4.2 degrees Celsius on Saturday, which was 2.7 degrees lower than the season’s average. The cold was accompanied by a thick layer of smog that reduced visibility and contributed to deteriorating air quality. The AQI, as reported by the Sameer application developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), stood at 346 on Saturday, placing the city at the higher end of the ‘very poor’ category.

On Sunday, although the AQI improved to 290, entering the ‘poor’ category, several parts of the city still recorded AQI levels above 300. Nehru Nagar topped the list with a reading of 348, followed closely by Anand Vihar at 338, Jahangirpuri at 337, and Pusa at 335. These readings indicate that while overall air quality has marginally improved, residents in certain neighborhoods continue to be exposed to unhealthy levels of pollutants, which can aggravate respiratory issues, particularly in children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Cold Wave Conditions

The IMD has confirmed that cold wave conditions persist across parts of north and northwest India, including the Delhi-NCR region. Isolated areas in the city have recorded temperatures even lower than the average minimum for Delhi. For instance, Ayanagar registered a minimum of 2.9 degrees Celsius, Palam recorded 3 degrees Celsius, and the Ridge station noted 3.7 degrees Celsius. The meteorological department has advised residents to take precautionary measures, especially during the early morning hours, when temperatures are expected to be at their lowest.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Delhi has forecast mostly clear skies for the day, which may bring some respite during daylight hours, but the cold wave is expected to continue in the coming days. Morning hours are likely to experience moderate fog, reducing visibility on roads and posing potential hazards for commuters. Residents are advised to wear adequate winter clothing and take necessary precautions against cold-related health issues, such as hypothermia and respiratory infections.

Impact on Delhi-NCR

The ongoing cold wave has been affecting daily life across Delhi and the National Capital Region. Commuters have reported fog-related delays in early morning travel, and schools have issued advisories for students to dress warmly. Traffic authorities have also warned motorists to exercise caution due to reduced visibility on major roads and highways.

In addition to the low temperatures, the city continues to grapple with air pollution. Despite an overall improvement in AQI, pollution levels in certain areas remain alarmingly high. Experts attribute the smog to a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and weather conditions such as low wind speeds and temperature inversion, which trap pollutants close to the ground.

Health experts have reiterated the importance of minimizing outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours when air quality tends to be worse. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, are particularly at risk and are advised to use masks or air purifiers where possible.

IGI Airport Advisory

In view of the ongoing cold wave and foggy conditions, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport issued an advisory to passengers. While there have been no flight cancellations or major disruptions reported so far, the airport authorities have activated Low Visibility Procedures to ensure safe operations.

The advisory urged travelers to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight timings and departures. “Low Visibility Procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates,” the advisory read. Airport officials emphasized that while operations continue as normal, passengers should arrive well ahead of schedule to account for any potential delays due to fog or other weather-related contingencies.

Precautionary Measures and Public Advice

With the cold wave expected to persist over the next few days, authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions. Wearing layered clothing, using heaters and warm bedding, and consuming hot fluids are recommended to prevent cold-related illnesses. People with existing health conditions, such as asthma or cardiovascular issues, are particularly advised to stay indoors during periods of dense smog and poor air quality.

The Delhi government has also been monitoring the air quality situation closely and has advised schools, hospitals, and workplaces to make arrangements for vulnerable populations. Public advisories have been issued warning against prolonged exposure to outdoor pollution, and citizens are encouraged to use masks, maintain hydration, and monitor their health for any respiratory or cold-related symptoms.

Outlook for the Coming Days

Meteorologists have indicated that while Delhi will experience some relief during the daytime due to sunny intervals, night-time and early morning temperatures will continue to remain low. Cold wave conditions are likely to persist in isolated pockets, with fog and reduced visibility expected to affect transportation and daily activities. The combination of low temperatures and lingering smog has created a situation where public health vigilance is essential.

Experts have also noted that air quality, although slightly improved, could fluctuate depending on weather conditions and wind patterns. Residents are advised to stay updated on real-time AQI data and follow safety guidelines issued by health and meteorological authorities.

Conclusion

As Delhi continues to face the dual challenge of a cold wave and air pollution, residents are advised to exercise caution and prioritize health and safety. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, with pockets of dense fog reducing visibility and complicating morning commutes. While air quality has improved from ‘very poor’ to ‘poor,’ certain areas continue to register AQI levels above 300, indicating ongoing health risks.

Authorities, including the Delhi government and IGI Airport, have issued advisories for commuters and passengers, urging them to plan ahead and follow safety measures. With cold wave conditions expected to persist over the coming days, the combination of low temperatures and air pollution underscores the need for vigilance, particularly for vulnerable populations. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather and air quality updates regularly, take preventive health measures, and remain aware of potential hazards associated with fog and smog.