Delhi Experiences Warm Weather with Temperatures Above Normal
New Delhi recorded another notably warm day on Tuesday, with the maximum temperature reaching 30.9°C, which is seven degrees above the seasonal average. This follows a pattern of elevated temperatures in the capital, though Tuesday's high was slightly lower than Monday's peak of 31.6°C.
Detailed Temperature and Wind Conditions
The minimum temperature on Tuesday settled at 12.4°C, marking a notch above the normal range and showing an increase from the previous day's 10.1°C. The city experienced north-westerly winds blowing at speeds of up to 6 kilometers per hour, contributing to the day's weather dynamics.
IMD Forecast for Wednesday and Beyond
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a marginal dip in daytime temperatures is expected on Wednesday, accompanied by overcast skies and a likelihood of drizzle. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for the day, indicating cautionary weather conditions.
Specific forecast details include:
- A possibility of very light rain at isolated places during the morning hours.
- Very light to light rain with thunderstorms or lightning likely at isolated locations towards the forenoon, accompanied by gusty winds of 30–40 kmph.
- Another spell of very light rain expected at isolated places in the afternoon.
IMD further stated that minimum temperatures are anticipated to remain largely unchanged over the next 24 hours. However, a dip of 2–3°C is forecast over the subsequent two days, with no major changes expected thereafter. For Wednesday, maximum temperatures are likely to hover between 26°C and 28°C, while minimum temperatures may range from 13°C to 15°C.
Air Quality Concerns in the Capital
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'poor' category on Tuesday. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 249 on the 0–500 scale, showing a slight improvement from the previous day's reading of 261.
The early warning system of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) provided an outlook:
- Air quality is likely to deteriorate to the 'very poor' category on February 18.
- From February 19 to 20, air quality is expected to remain in the 'poor' category.
- The forecast for the following six days indicates continued 'poor' air quality conditions.
This combination of warm temperatures and poor air quality highlights ongoing environmental challenges in the city, with residents advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions.
