Cold Wave Continues In Delhi As Minimum Temperature Inches Up Slightly

Delhi witnessed a slight increase in its minimum temperature on Wednesday morning, but the respite remained minimal as cold wave conditions continued to dominate the national capital.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature settled at 3.8 degrees Celsius, marginally higher than the previous day, while overall weather conditions remained harsh.

Alongside the biting cold, air quality across the city remained a serious concern. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 360, placing Delhi firmly in the ‘very poor’ category.

Several monitoring stations reported AQI levels well above 300, with some areas slipping into the ‘severe’ bracket, posing significant health risks.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed worrying pollution levels across multiple localities.

Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 420, categorised as ‘severe’. RK Puram followed closely with 407, while Dwarka Sector 8 registered 403.

Other areas such as Anand Vihar (366), Bawana (361), Punjabi Bagh (366), Wazirpur (386), and Chandni Chowk (397) also reported ‘very poor’ air quality.

Experts warn that prolonged exposure to ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ air can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, particularly affecting children, senior citizens, and those with existing health issues.

The IMD has forecast that cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are likely to persist over Delhi for the next two to three days.

For Wednesday, the weather office predicted cold wave conditions at a few locations, accompanied by shallow to moderate fog during morning hours.

Temperature Outlook for the Coming Days

Maximum temperatures are likely to range between 19 and 21 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may hover between 3 and 5 degrees Celsius. The IMD noted that minimum temperatures are likely to remain appreciably below normal at several places.

Fluctuating visibility due to fog has also impacted flight operations at Hindon Airport.

Authorities have cautioned passengers about possible delays and advised them to check updated flight schedules before travelling.

Delhi has endured intense cold over recent days, with Tuesday marking the coldest morning of the season so far at 3 degrees Celsius.

While the IMD expects a gradual rise in minimum temperatures by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius over the next five days, residents have been urged to take precautions against cold-related ailments and deteriorating air quality.

Also Read: Delhi-NCR Battles Biting Cold And Severe Air Pollution