Dense Fog Affects Air Quality Amid 2024 Republic Day Parade In Delhi

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts moderate to dense fog conditions in parts of Delhi during the early morning hours on Republic Day, issuing an 'orange alert' for January 26.

The real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) in New Delhi is currently 450. An AQI between 301 to 400 is considered 'severe,' and it is 'hazardous' when it ranges between 401 to 500.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board's data, the 24-hour average AQI on Thursday settled at 332, categorizing it as 'severe.'

Until 08:30 AM, visibility limits are only 400 meters due to heavy fog. However, visibility levels are expected to reach 1,500 meters by 10:30 AM, as per the weather forecast.

The Indian Railways reported that on [date], 24 Delhi-bound trains faced delays due to fog in parts of northern India.

Why Air Quality Dips In New Delhi?

The prolonged fog in the plains since December 25 is due to the absence of active western disturbances (WD), which typically bring rain to northwest India.

This winter, there's a lack of strong WD activity, partly because of El-Nino conditions causing abnormal warming in the Pacific Ocean. This disrupts factors needed for fog formation: weak low-level winds, moisture, and overnight cooling. Although two WDs have occurred, their impact has been limited to a few states.

Thus, reduced visibility is expected during Republic Day celebrations, so precautions are advised.

Temperature in Delhi On January 26

According to the IMD, the minimum temperature will range between 5 to 7 degrees Celsius as the national capital, Delhi, is currently experiencing cold day conditions with dense fog in the morning and night.