As Delhi experiences a chilly weekend, the mercury dipped to 5.5 degrees Celsius early on Saturday, three notches below the seasonal norm. Despite the cold nights, sunny and comfortable days persisted, with the maximum temperature reaching 24.7°C, two degrees above the average.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the cold spell to icy northwesterly winds sweeping through the National Capital Region (NCR). Officials stated that the absence of a western disturbance intensified the impact of these winds, causing colder nights but maintaining pleasant daytime temperatures.
IMD forecasts an increase in wind speeds from 8 kmph on Saturday to 15 kmph on Sunday, offering a silver lining by potentially reducing pollution levels. The current air quality in Delhi remains in the “very poor” zone, with a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 354, a slight deterioration from Friday’s 323.
The forecast suggests that Delhiites can expect similar weather conditions in the upcoming week, with the minimum temperature fluctuating between 5°C and 7°C. The maximum temperature is predicted to hover around 23-25 degrees Celsius. However, a shift is anticipated after December 25, as a western disturbance is expected to impact the region, causing a drop in daytime temperatures.
Despite the chilly nights, Delhi’s residents are unlikely to feel the cold significantly due to the absence of moisture and fog. The conditions are expected to persist, with a minor fall in temperatures projected after December 22 or 23, according to meteorological experts.
While Delhi braces for the winter chill, concerns about air quality persist. The Early Warning System for Delhi, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, anticipates pollution levels oscillating between the “poor” and “very poor” zones in the coming days.
Parts of northwest India are also expected to experience a slight drop in minimum temperatures, according to IMD. Sunday may see a minor spike in temperatures due to a western disturbance, but a subsequent dip of up to three degrees is forecasted after Monday.
As Delhi navigates through this weather pattern, residents are advised to stay updated on the evolving conditions and take necessary precautions, especially with the anticipation of a colder spell post-Christmas.
