Delhi Weather Report: IMD Predicts Rain On Tuesday; Air Quality Remains 'Very Poor'

The air quality in Delhi remained poor on Monday, with a thick haze covering the city and reducing visibility. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was 301 by 4 pm, indicating 'very poor' conditions.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi experienced a maximum temperature of 29.5 degrees Celsius, which is slightly above normal. The minimum temperature was recorded at 17.3 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels varied between 94% and 58% throughout the day.

Pollution Sources and Contributions

Anand Vihar was identified as the most polluted area with an AQI of 395, followed by Wazirpur at 385. By 6 pm, data from the CPCB's Sameer app showed that 22 out of 38 monitoring stations in Delhi recorded 'very poor' air quality levels. However, no station reported pollution levels as 'severe'.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology's Decision Support System for Air Quality Management highlighted various pollution sources. Transport contributed to 13.7% of Delhi's pollution, while nearby NCR regions like Ghaziabad added 10.6%, Meerut contributed 4.8%, and local emissions accounted for 3.6%. Other sources made up nearly 20% of the pollution.

Weather Forecast and Health Advisory

The IMD has forecast partly cloudy skies for Tuesday with mist or haze expected in the morning and a chance of very light rain or drizzle in some areas. Temperatures are predicted to be around a maximum of 29 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 18 degrees Celsius.

Health experts have advised residents to reduce outdoor activities during peak pollution times, particularly early morning and late evening. Dr Hinal Shah from Agilus Diagnostics stated, "Winter air becomes denser, trapping pollutants that irritate the respiratory tract and worsen conditions like asthma and allergies." He suggested using N95 masks and HEPA air purifiers to mitigate health risks.

Stubble Burning Incidents

Satellite data from October 26 revealed stubble-burning incidents contributing to pollution levels: Punjab had 122 cases, Haryana had eight, and Uttar Pradesh reported 186 incidents.

The ongoing air quality issues highlight the need for effective measures to combat pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. With various factors contributing to the city's deteriorating air quality, addressing these challenges remains crucial for improving public health and environmental conditions.