Delhi Records October’s Coldest Night Yet; Dussehra Likely To Remain Rain-Free

Delhi recorded its lowest minimum temperature of October so far on Monday, as the mercury at Safdarjung fell to 17.1 degrees Celsius, 1.3 degrees below the seasonal average.

The maximum temperature reached 31.7 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The national capital and neighbouring areas have begun experiencing cooler mornings, evenings and nights as October progresses. Several northern states are witnessing a seasonal chill, while parts of southern India are receiving heavy rainfall.

The IMD has forecast clear weather in Delhi on Dussehra, with no rain expected to disrupt celebrations. The maximum temperature is likely to reach around 32 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may remain near 18 degrees Celsius.

Clear skies are expected until October 23, followed by partly cloudy conditions on October 24 and 25.

A low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea is contributing to increased rainfall activity in parts of southern India, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 139 at 4 pm on Monday, placing it in the moderate category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Of 58 monitoring stations reporting data, two recorded poor air quality and six reported satisfactory conditions. Pusa registered the highest AQI at 281, in the poor category.

The Air Quality Early Warning System expects moderate conditions on Tuesday, followed by poor air quality on October 21 and 22. Unfavourable weather could slow pollutant dispersion and worsen pollution levels.

Satellite data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute’s CREAMS laboratory recorded 98 stubble-burning incidents across six states on October 19. Uttar Pradesh reported 27 cases, Punjab 25, Rajasthan 24, Uttarakhand 18 and Madhya Pradesh four. Haryana and Delhi reported none.

Between September 15 and October 19, authorities recorded 1,171 incidents. Madhya Pradesh reported 370, Punjab 368, Rajasthan 197, Uttar Pradesh 175, Uttarakhand 51, Haryana nine and Delhi one.

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