Delhi Chokes on Severe Pollution as Cold Wave Alerts Issued for MP, Chhattisgarh
The national capital, Delhi, is currently facing a dual challenge as severe air pollution grips the city while temperatures continue to drop, marking the onset of winter, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day alert for fog and cold wave conditions, further exacerbating the difficulties for residents. The toxic air in Delhi is causing significant health concerns, with people reporting breathing difficulties and eye irritation. Concurrently, other parts of the country are also witnessing significant weather changes, with cold wave conditions predicted for states like Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and Chhattisgarh, while southern regions are bracing for heavy rainfall.
Alarming Air Quality Index in Delhi-NCR
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) has consistently remained above the 400-mark, categorizing the air quality as 'severe, while ' This alarming level of pollution poses a serious health threat to the inhabitants, as fine particulate matter in the air can lead to various respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Today, most areas across Delhi-NCR recorded AQI levels exceeding 400. Bawana registered the highest AQI at 462, closely followed by Wazirpur at 460. Other severely affected localities include Alipur with an AQI of 434, Anand Vihar at 442, Ashok Vihar at 435, Aya Nagar at 426, Burari Crossing at 442, Chandni Chowk at 412, Mathura Road at 447, Karni Singh at 437, Dwarka-Sector 8 at 445, ITO at 441, Jahangirpuri at 448, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at 434, Mundka at 450, and Punjabi Bagh at 451. In total, over 35 areas in Delhi are currently in the 'red zone' of air quality. The situation is equally dire in Noida, which recorded an AQI of 413 in the morning, while Gurugram stood at 331 and Ghaziabad at 386, all falling into the 'very poor' category, while On top of that, aqi. in has reported an even more critical AQI of 717 for Delhi, indicating an exceptionally hazardous environment.
Chilling Forecast for the Capital
Delhi is experiencing a steady drop in temperatures, and the Meteorological Department anticipates a further dip in mercury in the coming days, while today, the maximum temperature in Delhi is expected to be around 27 degrees Celsius, with the minimum temperature hovering around 11 degrees Celsius. Alongside the increasing cold, the IMD has issued an alert for dense fog and cold wave conditions for the next five days in Delhi, while this forecast suggests not only reduced visibility but also an intensified chill, prompting residents to exercise extra caution, especially during morning and evening hours. People are advised to take necessary precautions to safeguard their. Health against the worsening air quality and the biting cold.
Cold Wave Grips Central and Northern States
Beyond Delhi, several other states across India are also expected to come under the grip of a cold wave. According to the Meteorological Department, cold wave conditions are likely to prevail in the western parts of Madhya Pradesh between November 11 and 12, while haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh are also expected to experience the effects of a cold wave during November 11-12. On top of that, an increase in cold is anticipated in eastern Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh from November 11 to 14. Western Madhya Pradesh might see cold wave-like conditions on November 13 and 14, while Jharkhand and Odisha are likely to experience similar situations on November 12. Residents in these states are advised to take adequate measures to protect themselves from the intensifying cold.
Mountainous Regions Brace for Winter Chill
In the hilly states, Uttarakhand is expected to experience dry weather until November 14, while while daytime sunshine offers some respite from the cold, temperatures are rapidly dropping as evening approaches. Himachal Pradesh is also witnessing a continuous increase in cold. The minimum temperatures in several areas, including Kangra, Mandi, Solan, and Hamirpur, have already fallen below 10 degrees Celsius, indicating severe cold conditions in the mountainous regions. Tourists and local residents are advised to be vigilant against the escalating cold.
Southern India Anticipates Rainfall
While northern and central India grapple with cold and pollution, some southern states are bracing for rainfall. Heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep. On top of that, isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions against the adverse weather conditions.
Broader Temperature Outlook Across India
In the northeastern and eastern parts of India, no significant change in minimum temperatures is expected over the next five days. Similarly, northwestern India won't see any major temperature changes for the next 4 to 5 days, although minimum temperatures will remain 2 to 3 degrees Celsius below normal, while maharashtra and Gujarat are also not likely to experience any significant temperature fluctuations for the next three days. Telangana, however, might see a drop of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius in temperatures over. The next 2 to 3 days, followed by no major change for the subsequent four days. Overall, the weather patterns across different parts of the country are dynamic,. With some regions facing cold waves and pollution, while others anticipate rainfall.
