The national capital, Delhi, experienced a chilling morning as a relentless cold wave swept through North India, with the minimum temperature recorded at 10.8 degrees Celsius in Palam. Locals, who are already dealing with the bitter cold, are exacerbated by the combination of fog and pollution, which creates difficulties, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the temperature trend over Delhi, stating, “Palam: 10.8 (-0.4) Safdarjung: 10.2 (+2.2).” Dense fog enveloped vast areas of Delhi on Tuesday morning, exacerbating the prevailing cold conditions.
The cold weather and persistent pollution are causing problems for residents, particularly those with asthma or respiratory problems. A resident, Shubh Bhargav, emphasized the impact of climate change on the city’s current weather conditions.
Locals expressed concern about health issues exacerbated by pollution, with one individual highlighting the negative impact on Delhi’s air quality. On Monday morning, the city recorded a minimum temperature of 6.8 degrees Celsius at Lodhi Road, with Safdarjung reporting a minimum temperature of 7.1 degrees, one degree lower than normal for this season.
The IMD predicts the minimum temperature to range between 5 degrees and 8 degrees throughout the week, with Friday, December 22, anticipated to witness the lowest temperature at 5 degrees. The ongoing weather patterns are influenced by a Western disturbance in the Himalayan region, according to Indian Meteorological Department scientist Naresh Kumar.
As the cold wave persists, residents are advised to take necessary precautions, especially those vulnerable to respiratory issues, and stay updated on weather forecasts and advisories.