Delhi records humid morning at 24.2°C; air quality in ‘moderate’ category, says IMD

Delhi experienced relatively mild weather conditions on Saturday as the minimum temperature was recorded at 24.2 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

This temperature falls within the normal range for this time of the year in the national capital. The IMD also reported a relative humidity level of 83 per cent at 8:30 am, indicating a humid morning.

The weather department has predicted partly cloudy skies for both Saturday and Sunday. Such cloud cover may provide some relief from the direct heat of the sun, although it can also contribute to humidity. The maximum temperature for Saturday is expected to reach around 35 degrees Celsius, which is fairly typical for late September in Delhi.

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In terms of air quality, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 131 at 9 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This places the air quality in the ‘moderate’ category. The AQI is a measure used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. An AQI value between 101 and 200 is classified as ‘moderate’, which means that air quality is acceptable; however, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

To provide context, the CPCB defines AQI levels as follows: 0 to 50 is considered ‘good’, 51 to 100 is ‘satisfactory’, 101 to 200 is ‘moderate’, 201 to 300 is ‘poor’, 301 to 400 is ‘very poor’, and 401 to 500 is classified as ‘severe’. Although the current AQI level does not pose a serious threat to public health, it serves as a reminder that pollution continues to be a concern in the city.

With inputs from PTI