Delhi-NCR is preparing for a fresh spell of winter rain on Tuesday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for rainfall and thunderstorms across the region.
The change in weather comes as air quality, which had briefly improved, has once again deteriorated.
After a short period of cleaner air, pollution levels rose sharply on Tuesday morning. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 281 at 7:30 AM, placing it firmly in the ‘poor’ category.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed particularly high pollution levels in several parts of the capital. Rohini recorded an AQI of 370, while Anand Vihar followed closely at 368.
Bawana reported 344, Sonia Vihar 337, Chandni Chowk 325 and DTU 322. Other affected areas included ITO, Patparganj, Dwarka Sector-8, North Campus and Narela, all reporting AQI levels well above safe limits.
Weather Shift After Cold Republic Day
Delhi witnessed a cold start to Republic Day on Monday, followed by a gradual rise in daytime temperatures. Despite the milder daytime conditions, air quality worsened as the day progressed and slipped into the ‘poor’ bracket.
The IMD has forecast rain and thunderstorms on Tuesday, accompanied by lightning and isolated hail. Wind speeds are expected to reach 40–50 kmph, with gusts touching 60 kmph in some areas.
The capital had experienced a significant improvement in air quality after winter rain on Sunday, when the AQI dropped to 150, categorised as ‘moderate’. While the rainfall intensified the winter chill, it brought temporary relief from prolonged pollution.
Under the AQI scale, readings between 201 and 300 are classified as ‘poor’, while levels above 300 fall into the ‘very poor’ range.
Earlier this month, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under the Commission for Air Quality Management revoked all Stage III restrictions across Delhi-NCR, citing improved air quality and favourable weather conditions.
On Monday, the 24-hour average AQI settled at 241, remaining in the ‘poor’ category. The IMD has cautioned residents to remain alert as unstable weather conditions persist, with warmer days but cold nights likely to continue across the region.
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