Delhi records minimum temperature of 9.2 deg C; air quality ‘very poor’

Delhi: The national capital experienced a minimum temperature of 9.2 degrees Celsius on Thursday, which was 0.8 degrees above the seasonal average, as per data provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to IMD reports, Delhi’s weather is expected to remain clear throughout the day. The maximum temperature is anticipated to reach around 26 degrees Celsius, providing a relatively comfortable daytime atmosphere despite the ongoing winter season.

At 8:30 am, the city’s humidity level stood at 97 per cent, indicating high moisture content in the air, which often leads to misty mornings and reduced visibility in certain areas.

In addition to the temperature updates, air quality in the capital continues to remain a serious concern. The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 10 am stood at 377, placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

For reference, the AQI scale classifies air quality into different categories based on pollution levels. A reading between 0 and 50 is considered ‘good,’ while 51 to 100 falls under the ‘satisfactory’ category. Air quality is labelled as ‘moderate’ for values ranging between 101 and 200, whereas a range of 201 to 300 is deemed ‘poor.’ When AQI readings are between 301 and 400, the air quality is categorized as ‘very poor,’ and levels between 401 and 500 indicate ‘severe’ pollution, which poses significant health risks.

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As winter lingers, the combination of weather patterns and pollution levels continues to affect Delhi’s residents, raising concerns over air quality and its impact on public health. Authorities advise citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to take necessary precautions and minimize prolonged outdoor exposure.

(With inputs from PTI)