Delhi Wakes Up to Dense Fog Blanket, IMD Warns of Cold Wave
A heavy layer of fog descended upon Delhi on Thursday morning. It significantly reduced visibility in many parts of the city. Areas like Moti Bagh and Dwarka were particularly affected.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert and Cold Wave Warning
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for the national capital. The alert warns of cold wave conditions at isolated places. An IMD official confirmed that multiple weather stations reported these conditions on Wednesday.
According to IMD norms, a cold wave is declared under specific conditions. It happens when the minimum temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius and is at least 4.5 degrees below the normal level. A cold wave is also declared if the actual minimum temperature reaches 4 degrees Celsius or lower.
Temperature Forecast and Expected Relief
The IMD forecasts a minimum temperature between 3 and 5 degrees Celsius for Thursday. Some relief is on the horizon starting Friday. A feeble western disturbance is approaching the region.
This weather system is likely to weaken the cold wave conditions. It should push night temperatures upward. The minimum temperature is expected to rise to 6–8 degrees Celsius on Friday.
By Sunday, the mercury is predicted to climb further. The minimum temperature could reach between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius.
Western Disturbances and Wind Shift
A western disturbance is expected to begin affecting the Himalayan region from January 15. This system may bring fresh snowfall on January 16.
The wind direction over Delhi is also forecast to change. It is likely to shift to an easterly flow. This shift will bring more moisture into the air. However, it should also lead to relatively milder weather conditions.
Mahesh Palawat, Vice-President at Skymet, provided additional insight. He mentioned a second and more active western disturbance. This system may bring rainfall over the plains around January 22 or 23.
Day Temperatures and Air Quality Status
Daytime temperatures offered some respite on Wednesday. The maximum temperature was recorded at 20 degrees Celsius. This reading was close to the seasonal normal. On Tuesday, the maximum had reached 21.6 degrees Celsius.
Delhi's air quality remained a concern. On Wednesday, it stayed at the higher end of the 'very poor' category. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index was recorded at 353. This was slightly lower than Tuesday's reading of 360.
The AQI is expected to remain in the 'very poor' category at least until January 23. Residents should continue to take necessary precautions.
