Delhi Braces for Cold Wave and Dense Fog as 2024 Ends: IMD’s Forecast for New Year’s Eve

Delhi continues to shiver on the last day of 2024 as a cold wave persists, with the national capital waking up to dense fog on New Year’s Eve. There are no immediate signs of relief as the city faces a sharp dip in night temperatures.

IMD’s Weather Update for December 31

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s skies are expected to remain cloudy on New Year’s Eve, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10.05°C to a maximum of 20.84°C. Dense fog conditions are likely to persist, showing no signs of clearing up despite the approaching New Year.

Cold Wave Expected to Continue into 2025

The cold wave in Delhi is predicted to persist into the New Year. On January 1, temperatures are expected to range from 13.57°C to 22.18°C. While a slight rise in temperatures is expected by mid-January, no significant relief from the cold is anticipated in the immediate days ahead. The dense fog is expected to linger for a few more days before gradually clearing from January 3.

Impact on Visibility and AQI

The ongoing cold wave is expected to affect visibility and further lower daytime temperatures across Northwest India. Meanwhile, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) worsened to the ‘poor’ category on December 31, with the CPCB reporting an AQI of 236 at 8 AM, a rise from previous days. As Delhiites gear up for the New Year celebrations, they will continue battling both the cold wave and deteriorating air quality.