Delhi woke up to a dense layer of fog on Saturday morning as a cold wave continued to grip the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 10.2°C at 5:30 am, slightly higher than yesterday’s 9.6°C.
Air Quality in the ‘Very Poor’ Category
Air pollution remains a significant concern, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 385 in the ‘very poor’ category at 6 am, up from 348 at the same time on Friday. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels above 300 indicate hazardous conditions that could severely impact residents, particularly vulnerable populations.
Shelters for the Homeless
With the temperature dropping, the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has increased its efforts to provide refuge for the homeless. Night shelters across the city, including locations at AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and the Nizamuddin flyover, reported full occupancy. Additionally, 235 pagoda tents have been erected to ensure no one is left out in the cold.
Residents were seen gathering around bonfires, a common sight in Delhi during harsh winters, as they sought warmth amid the biting cold.
Weather Across North India
The cold wave and fog extended across North India, affecting states like Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.
- Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: The state capital recorded a minimum temperature of 11.4°C at 5:30 am, while Mainpuri experienced dense fog that disrupted visibility.
- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: The region experienced a notable weather phenomenon, recording its highest-ever daytime temperature for January at 21.6°C on Thursday. This surpassed the previous record of 21.4°C, set on January 30, 2006.
IMD Himachal Pradesh Chief Dr. Kuldeep Srivastava attributed the rise in temperatures to clear skies but warned of an impending Western Disturbance. Starting January 5, the region is expected to receive heavy snowfall and rainfall, with affected areas including Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and parts of the central Himalayan region.
- Jammu and Kashmir: Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling -0.6°C at 5:30 am on Saturday.
Outlook and Warnings
IMD forecasts predict light to moderate rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, particularly on January 6. Rain and thundershowers are also likely in plains adjoining Punjab and Haryana, signaling a brief respite from the dry spell.
While the cold wave continues to grip Delhi and North India, residents are advised to stay warm and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Authorities remain on high alert to manage the challenges posed by severe weather and air pollution.