Delhi Weather: Rain, thunderstorms hit Delhi-NCR, IMD issues yellow alert till Sunday; Air quality drops to severe level

Delhi and its neighboring regions, including Noida and Ghaziabad, experienced a spell of overnight rain. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light rain and thunderstorms in the national capital region until Sunday. A yellow alert has been issued across Delhi, warning of light rain, smog, and shallow fog during morning hours. Overcast conditions are also expected today.

Delhi has been dealing with dense fog for the past few days, disrupting train schedules. As of Thursday, 29 trains to Delhi were delayed due to low visibility caused by fog, according to the Indian Railways.

Delhi Temperature and humidity levels

The minimum temperature in Delhi stands at 12.05 degrees Celsius, while the maximum is 21.41 degrees Celsius. The city recorded a relative humidity of 44%, with wind speeds reaching 44 km/hour.

Delhi Air quality concerns

Despite the rain, Delhi's air quality remains a pressing concern. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached the 'severe' category in several areas, with levels exceeding 400. According to AQI.in, as of 6 am on Thursday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 404, Chandni Chowk 325, RK Puram 368, and Rohini 431.

The highest AQI, 434, was observed in Wazirpur, while the lowest, 236, was recorded at IHBAS in Dilshad Garden. An AQI between 401 and 500 is classified as 'severe', indicating hazardous air conditions. AQI categories are: 0-50 ('good'), 51-100 ('satisfactory'), 101-200 ('moderate'), 201-300 ('poor'), 301-400 ('very poor'), and 401-500 ('severe'). Due to worsening air quality, the central government reinstated GRAP IV (Graded Response Action Plan) restrictions in Delhi-NCR on Wednesday.

Delhi GRAP IV reimposed

In response to the worsening air quality, the central government has reinstated GRAP IV (Graded Response Action Plan) restrictions in Delhi-NCR. These measures aim to curb pollution and mitigate the impact of poor air quality on public health.

Residents are advised to stay updated on weather and air quality reports and take necessary precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.