Delhi woke up to a hazy morning on Thursday as toxic smog enveloped the metropolis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 278, placing the city firmly in the ‘poor’ category. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, residents can expect a further decline in air quality, potentially entering the ‘very poor’ category between November 6 and 8.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed that Delhi’s AQI stood at 278 this morning, a worrying statistic for the capital’s inhabitants. Experts warn that a combination of low wind speeds and increased pollutant accumulation may lead to even worse air quality by this evening.
The Early Warning System predicts a slight increase in wind speed up to 15 kmph from the northwest during the afternoon. However, this will drop below 10 kmph later in the evening and night. The sky will likely remain mostly clear, yet residual mist and haze are expected to linger throughout the day.
According to CPCB classifications, the AQI is rated as follows: 0-50 is considered ‘good,’ 51-100 is ‘satisfactory,’ 101-200 is ‘moderate,’ 201-300 is ‘poor,’ 301-400 is ‘very poor,’ and anything above 401 falls into the ‘severe’ category. Presently, Delhi’s air quality underscores a need for immediate action.
In addition to the air quality concerns, the minimum temperature in Delhi settled at a chilly 12.7 degrees Celsius, which is 2.6 degrees below the seasonal average. At 8:30 am, humidity registered at 75 percent. The maximum temperature throughout the day is predicted to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, paired with continued mist and haze.
Given these alarming air quality levels, experts advise residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly during early mornings and late evenings when pollution peaks. Public health officials stress the serious health risks associated with poor air quality, urging citizens to take necessary precautions.
Delhi’s chronic air pollution crisis demands immediate attention from both local authorities and residents alike. The need for sustained awareness and action remains critical as air quality levels continue to fluctuate.
