Delhi-NCR Weather: Early Morning Rain Intensifies Cold Wave, AQI Stays Very Poor

Residents of Delhi-NCR woke up to an unexpected spell of early morning rain on Friday, which intensified the ongoing cold wave across the region. Despite hopes that showers might bring relief from pollution, air quality remained in the very poor category, with the AQI recorded at 321 at 8 am.

The rain began around 6 am in several parts of Delhi, starting off moderately before easing into light drizzle as the morning progressed. Cold northwesterly winds accompanied the showers, making conditions feel significantly colder than the actual recorded temperatures.

Rain in Delhi and Gurgaon Disrupts Morning Commute

Parts of Gurgaon also witnessed morning rain, even though weather forecasts had not clearly predicted showers for the city. The sudden change in weather slowed traffic movement across several key routes in Delhi-NCR, with commuters reporting delays during peak office hours.

Despite the brief rain spell, pollution levels showed no major improvement, keeping public concern over air quality high amid the prolonged winter smog episode.

IMD Forecast: Low Temperatures to Continue

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi's minimum temperature on Friday is likely to hover around 5°C, while the maximum temperature may remain between 16°C and 17°C.

On Thursday, Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 5.8°C, nearly one degree below normal and the coldest day of the season so far. Lodhi Road followed closely with a minimum of 6.1°C, indicating widespread cold conditions across the capital.

AQI Remains Very Poor Across NCR

IMD data showed that air quality stayed in the very poor category across Delhi and neighbouring NCR cities. Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad also recorded AQI levels in a similar range, offering little relief to residents battling a mix of cold weather and heavy pollution.

Fog Alert Issued for Delhi-NCR

IMD has issued a yellow alert for dense fog on Friday and Saturday, warning of reduced visibility during early morning and late-night hours. Winds blowing at around 13 kmph are expected to make daytime conditions feel colder, even during brief sunny intervals.

The weather department said there is no significant change expected in minimum temperatures over the next few days, with cold nights and cold-day conditions likely to persist across the region.

Weather Outlook Beyond Delhi

IMD has also highlighted weather concerns in other parts of the country. Southern India may witness heavy rainfall, while severe cold and dense fog are expected to affect several northern and central states in the coming days.

As Delhi-NCR continues to grapple with rain, cold wave conditions and hazardous air quality, residents have been advised to remain cautious, limit outdoor exposure during early hours and stay alert to fog-related travel disruptions.