New Delhi [India], January 7: Delhi experienced a slightly cooler morning on Tuesday, with minor fluctuations in minimum temperatures across various areas. Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 10.5 degrees Celsius at 08:30 IST, marking an increase of 0.9 degrees Celsius from the previous day, and was 3.6 degrees Celsius above the normal winter range. Meanwhile, Palam saw a slight dip, registering 9.0 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees Celsius lower than the previous day, yet still 2.5 degrees above the usual levels.
The city also continued to face “very poor” air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 337 around 9:30 am. The AQI in various localities such as Alipur, Ashok Vihar, and Bawana also ranged between 322 and 337, all falling into the ‘very poor’ category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Earlier in the day, a thick fog enveloped the capital as cold wave conditions persisted, further chilling the atmosphere. At 5:30 am, the India Meteorological Department recorded a temperature of 11.6 degrees Celsius. The forecast for the day predicts a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 19 degrees Celsius, with dense fog expected to linger throughout the day.
As the temperatures dipped, many residents sought refuge in night shelters, with the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) setting up 235 pagoda tents for the homeless to provide warmth. Bonfires were seen around the city as people huddled together to stay warm amid the biting cold.