Delhi-NCR shivers in biting cold as temperature dips further, AQI remains ‘very poor’
The cold wave continues to tighten its grip over Delhi-NCR as the temperature in the region dipped further. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature recorded on Thursday morning was 7.3 degrees. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 15 degrees in the national capital today, with fog conditions likely to decrease in the next two days.
However, despite the slight relief in foggy conditions, the air quality in several parts of Delhi remains in the ‘very poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 379 in RK Puram, 312 in Lodhi Road, 377 in the ITO area, and 387 in the IGI Airport area.
The IMD has issued a health advisory to the public, warning about the adverse effects of dense fog and the cold wave on lung health. Dense fog contains particulate matter and other pollutants that can get lodged in the lungs, clogging them and decreasing their functional capacity. This can lead to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, the IMD explained. The advisory also highlighted the potential for eye irritation and infections due to exposure to pollutants in the air.
The IMD predicts that the cold wave is likely to persist for the next 2-3 days in Delhi and the National Capital Region. It also anticipates dense to very dense fog over certain parts of the plains of Northwest and East India during the next two days, gradually decreasing thereafter. Minimum temperatures are expected to rise by 2-3 degrees in many parts of Central and East India during the next 3 days, followed by no significant change.
As the biting cold continues to affect daily life in Delhi-NCR, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health. The authorities are closely monitoring the air quality and weather conditions to ensure the well-being of the public.
