Delhi continued to grapple with very poor air quality on Monday, as a haze of pollutants lingered over the city. The minimum temperature rose slightly to 8.7°C, still below the normal for this period, compared to 8°C the previous day. This increase is attributed to a western disturbance affecting the region, which also brought moisture and partially cloudy skies.

Temperature Trends

The city had experienced a seasonal low of 5.6°C on Friday, followed by 6.8°C on Saturday and 8°C on Sunday. The rise to 8.7°C on Monday is due to the trapping of heat by clouds and increased moisture, which prevents temperatures from dropping sharply at night. According to an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official, the minimum temperature is expected to remain between 8°C and 11°C until Wednesday, before dropping slightly to 6-8°C on Thursday and Friday. Winds are predicted to blow at 15-20 km/h briefly on Monday, but will slow during early morning and night hours, contributing to stagnant air conditions.

Air Quality Situation

The Air Quality Index (AQI) at 8 am on Monday was 318, categorized as “very poor.” This is a slight increase from 302 at 10 am on Sunday, 308 at 4 pm, and 317 by 8 pm. On Saturday, the AQI had been 330 (very poor).

Experts note that the city’s meteorological conditions are unlikely to improve significantly this week, and Delhi is expected to remain in the “very poor” AQI category. This follows a season marked by consistently high pollution levels, including three consecutive “severe” air days from November 11-13.

Health Implications

Persistent exposure to very poor air quality can have serious health effects, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Residents are advised to:

• Minimise outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and evening
• Use masks designed to filter particulate matter when stepping outside
• Keep windows closed and use air purifiers indoors if possible

Meteorological Outlook

The IMD forecast suggests that no significant changes in wind or rainfall are expected this week, which means pollutants will remain trapped over the city, exacerbating smog conditions. Any temporary improvement would depend on wind speed increases or precipitation, which currently appears unlikely in the near term.

As Delhi continues to struggle with rising pollution levels alongside chilly winter temperatures, authorities are expected to monitor air quality closely and issue timely health advisories for residents.