Delhi records 19.2 deg C minimum temperature; rain, thunderstorm likely

Delhi on Thursday recorded a minimum temperature of 19.2 degrees Celsius, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting rain accompanied by thunderstorms during the day. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 34 degrees Celsius.

The air quality was in the “moderate” category at 9 am, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 176, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The CPCB classifies an AQI between 0 and 50 as ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’.

“Unusual rainfall activity has been observed this March. Typically, the month sees only isolated pre-monsoon showers, but this time there have been multiple spells of rain. This is due to a series of western disturbances, one of which has been active since March 15 and is approaching at a lower altitude than usual,” said Mahesh Palawat of Skymet.

He added that another western disturbance has induced a cyclonic circulation over central Pakistan and adjoining parts of northwest Rajasthan and west Haryana. “As a result, parts of Delhi are likely to experience high wind speeds, light rain and mild dust storms tomorrow. While this system may not immediately impact temperatures, a more pronounced effect is expected towards the end of the month,” Palawat said.

Looking ahead, he said rainfall activity is likely to increase between March 29 and 31 across large parts of India. “This extended spell is expected to bring down temperatures, with daytime readings likely to settle in the mid-20s towards the end of March,” he added.