Delhi is currently experiencing significant fluctuations in temperature and adverse weather conditions, with thick fog covering parts of the city and the mercury dropping to 7°C. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave conditions are gripping large portions of North India, including nearby regions such as Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, with more severe warnings expected over the coming days.
This sudden dip in temperature has not gone unnoticed. On Wednesday, temperatures peaked at 22.4°C, only slightly above the seasonal average, yet Thursday morning saw the minimum temperature plummet to 7°C, prompting the issuance of dense fog alerts. The IMD's forecasts indicate persistent cold conditions, forecasting similar temperature dips across parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh until the end of the week.
Flight operations at Delhi Airport have also been affected due to low visibility, as the advisory from the airport stated, “All flight operations are presently normal,” though low visibility procedures are currently being enacted. Travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight schedules amid weather disruptions.
On the other hand, air quality conditions are worth noting as well. The air quality index (AQI) today has recorded levels at 0.0, indicating exceptionally good air quality. This development is likely to bring some relief to residents who are often plagued by poor air quality during winter months. The IMD emphasizes the importance of being mindful of local air quality alerts, especially for those sensitive to pollution.
The IMD's projections for the rest of today show expected temperatures ranging from 9.05°C to 23.5°C, alongside relative humidity settling at around 36%, with wind speeds touching 36 km/h. Clear skies are expected throughout the day, enhancing the overall feel compared to the cold dampness of fog earlier. The sun is anticipated to rise at 7:12 AM, providing daylight until sunset at 5:31 PM.
Looking forward, tomorrow's forecast suggests temperatures could reach slightly higher levels, with the minimum projected at 16.38°C and maximum at 23.68°C. The forecast indicates humidity could lower to about 28%. The clear skies are expected to continue, prompting the IMD to encourage residents to adjust their outdoor plans accordingly to take full advantage of the stable weather patterns.
Reporting on the weather conditions over the next week, the IMD continues to advise the public to remain updated on temperature variations, humidity levels, and any sky changes, including sunny and cloudy forecasts. It suggests using daily temperature averages to help structure activities, especially for those engaged outdoors. Such updates are particularly significant as daily life can be influenced heavily by these variables during the winter season.
With the persistent cold wave warnings and shifting weather patterns, the guidance provided by the IMD becomes invaluable for residents seeking to navigate the upcoming days efficiently. Monitoring these weather changes will not only provide insights for personal planning but can also aid in ensuring safety and comfort during this period marked by significant cold and cloudy conditions.
