Weather – Delhi Temperatures Set to Rise While Air Quality Worsens
Weather – The national capital is likely to experience a further rise in temperature, with the mercury expected to reach around 42 degrees Celsius on Friday, according to the India Meteorological Department. Despite the increasing heat, officials have indicated that conditions do not currently meet the criteria for a heatwave over the coming week.
Rising Temperatures Across the Capital
On Thursday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, reflecting a steady upward trend. Earlier in the week, Wednesday stood out as the hottest day so far this year in the NCR region, with temperatures climbing to 39.2 degrees Celsius. Weather experts suggest that similar conditions are expected to continue, with daytime temperatures likely to remain between 40°C and 42°C in the coming days.
Nighttime temperatures have also shown slight variation. The minimum temperature on Thursday settled at 20.3 degrees Celsius, which is marginally below the seasonal average by 1.3 degrees. For the next few days, minimum temperatures are expected to hover between 22°C and 24°C.
Local Variations in Temperature Readings
Different parts of the city have recorded varying temperature levels. The Ridge station in North Delhi reported the highest reading at 40.7 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. Other areas such as Lodhi Road and Ayanagar recorded temperatures close to 39 degrees Celsius, while Palam registered a slightly lower 38.3 degrees Celsius.
Safdarjung, considered the city’s base weather station, noted a maximum temperature of 39.2 degrees Celsius, which was around 3.1 degrees higher than normal for this time of year. Meteorologists have indicated that more stations, including Safdarjung, are likely to cross the 40-degree mark as the week progresses.
Cloudy Skies and Possible Thunder Activity
The weather department has forecast partly cloudy conditions during the day, with the possibility of thunder activity developing later in the evening. Such changes may bring brief relief but are unlikely to significantly impact the overall temperature trend.
Air Quality Declines to Poor Category
Alongside rising temperatures, Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 226 on Thursday, placing it in the ‘poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.
Officials have attributed the worsening air quality to unfavorable meteorological conditions, including limited wind movement and atmospheric factors that restrict pollutant dispersion. Forecasts from both the weather department and scientific institutions indicate that the AQI is expected to remain in the same category for the next couple of days.
GRAP Stage I Measures Implemented
In response to the declining air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage I measures under the Graded Response Action Plan across the Delhi-NCR region. These measures are implemented as a precautionary step to control pollution levels and prevent further deterioration.
Authorities stated that the decision was taken after observing a consistent upward trend in AQI readings. The Stage I actions include steps aimed at reducing emissions from various sources, including construction activities and vehicular pollution.
Outlook for the Coming Days
While temperatures are expected to stay high, the absence of official heatwave conditions offers some reassurance. However, the combination of rising heat and poor air quality may continue to pose challenges for residents.
Experts advise people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, and remain informed about daily weather and pollution updates.