Delhi is set for a stretch of cold, foggy, and polluted days following its first cold wave of the season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that dense fog will frequently blanket the city during night and early morning hours over the coming week. This weather pattern coincides with a severe dip in air quality, pushing authorities to enact the highest pollution control measures.
A Look at the Upcoming Fog Conditions
The city’s weather will see a gradual shift from cloudy to clearer skies, but fog will be a constant companion. After Sunday’s misty night, Monday morning is expected to be shrouded in moderate to dense fog. While Tuesday through Christmas Day (Thursday) will see mainly clear skies, each morning will begin with periods of shallow to moderate fog. Residents should anticipate significant visibility drops and travel disruptions during early hours.
Why is the Air Quality So Bad?
As temperatures drop, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has sharply worsened, entering the ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ categories. On Sunday morning, the average AQI was recorded at 387. It is concerning to note that 19 out of 40 monitoring sites showed AQI readings above 400, which is considered “severe” and dangerous for human health. In winter, when cold, stagnant air retains contaminants near the ground, this drop is common.
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What Actions Have Authorities Taken?
In response to the dangerous air pollution levels, authorities have implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR region.IAQI levels exceeding 400, which are considered “severe” and dangerous to health, were reported by 19 out of 40 monitoring stations. This decrease is common throughout the winter months when stagnant, cold air traps contaminants near the ground.
The Broader Weather Context
This foggy spell comes after Delhi experienced its coldest day of December so far on Saturday, December 20th. The maximum temperature plunged to 16.9°C, which is 5.3 degrees below the seasonal normal, marking the season’s first official cold wave. The combination of low temperatures, high humidity, and calm winds is creating the perfect conditions for both dense fog formation and the accumulation of pollutants.
Immediate FAQs
Q: When will the dense fog be at its worst in Delhi this week?
A: The densest fog is forecast for Monday morning (December 22). Dense to moderate fog is also expected during the early hours throughout the rest of the week.
Q: What does a ‘Very Poor’ AQI mean for residents?
A: An AQI between 301-400 is classified as ‘Very Poor.’Long-term exposure can cause pain and respiratory disease even in healthy individuals. All outdoor activity should be avoided by youngsters, older persons, and those with heart or lung conditions.
Q: What is GRAP Stage IV?
A: GRAP Stage IV is the most severe level of Delhi’s graded pollution response plan. Its actions include prohibiting polluting trucks from entering the city, stopping the majority of building and demolition, and potentially restricting private automobiles.
Q: Will the weather improve by Christmas?
A: Skies will be mainly clear on Christmas Day (Thursday), but morning fog and ‘Very Poor’ air quality are still expected to persist. No significant improvement in pollution levels is forecast immediately.
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