Delhi Drenched: Morning Showers Strike Amid Chilly Cold Wave and Hazardous Air Quality!

On Friday, Delhi experienced temperatures ranging from a cool 12°C to a pleasant high of 20°C, accompanied by refreshing rain, providing a welcomed respite from the heat.

On the morning of December 27, Delhi was met with significant rainfall as the city continues to experience a persistent cold wave. The rain, occurring around 7:20 am, resulted in a recorded temperature of 13 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously indicated that the weather would intensify during this period, and their predictions have proven accurate as heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to persist through December 28.

Visuals captured from various locations across the city, including Moti Lal Nehru Marg and the iconic India Gate, depicted rain falling amidst a backdrop of light fog, creating a picturesque yet damp atmosphere. The anticipated minimum temperature for the day is reported to hover around 12 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature might reach approximately 20 degrees Celsius.

Moreover, this weather shift comes at a time of heightened security within the capital due to the recent passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Authorities have increased security measures significantly around Moti Lal Nehru Marg, where Singh’s residence is situated, ensuring that public safety is maintained during this emotionally charged time for the nation.

The IMD's forecasts have suggested that thunderstorms, accompanied by rain, are imminent in Delhi on this Friday. Prior to this, on the preceding day, the capital experienced light rain, with minimum temperatures recorded at 8.2 degrees Celsius. Experts indicated that Friday’s conditions could lead to moderate rainfall combined with thunderstorms, featuring lightning and strong winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h.

Initial rainfall data from the IMD indicated that various regions in Delhi received measurable rainfall, with Safdarjung reporting 7.3 mm and Palam receiving 6.6 mm. Other areas such as Lodhi Road and the Ridge recorded 6.8 mm and 1.8 mm, respectively. This precipitation is impacting daily life in the capital, causing disruptions but also providing much-needed relief from the cold.

As for air quality, Delhi's air quality index (AQI) showed a slight improvement, noting a reading of 340 on Thursday, categorizing the air quality as 'very poor.' On Friday, forecasts suggest further enhancement in air quality conditions. The AQI scale categorizes air quality levels from 0 to 50 as ‘good’, 51 to 100 as ‘satisfactory’, 101 to 200 as ‘moderate’, 201 to 300 as ‘poor’, 301 to 400 as ‘very poor’, and anything above 400 as ‘severe’.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, the national capital continues to face 'very poor' air quality overall this Friday. Specific areas such as Pusa recorded an AQI of 353, while North Campus measured 342. Additionally, places like Mundka reached a severe level of 413, Wazirpur recorded 392, and IGI Airport (Terminal 3) logged an AQI of 340. Other locations such as Dwarka Sector-8, RK Puram, Lodhi Road, Burari Crossing, and JNU Stadium are also showing concerning AQI levels, with readings ranging from 345 to 371.

As the rain continues to fall and temperatures fluctuate, residents of Delhi are reminded to stay alert and prepared for changing weather conditions in the coming days.