Delhi woke up to a hazy morning on Thursday, November 2, as a thin layer of smog enveloped the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI), a crucial measure of air pollution, recorded a worrying 278, placing the city firmly in the ‘poor’ category. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, residents should prepare for worsening conditions as pollution levels are projected to slide into the ‘very poor’ category between November 6 and 8.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) released the AQI figure early in the day. Experts express concern that air quality may deteriorate further by evening due to low wind speeds and accumulating pollutants. Dr. Anjali Sharma, a leading environmental scientist, emphasized that this situation could severely affect vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.
Forecasts from the Early Warning System suggest that wind speeds may gradually increase up to 15 kmph from the northwest direction in the afternoon. However, they will likely drop below 10 kmph by evening, contributing to the stagnant conditions that exacerbate air quality issues. The sky is expected to remain mainly clear, although mist or haze may linger throughout the day.
The CPCB classifies AQI levels as follows: 0 to 50 is deemed “good,” 51 to 100 “satisfactory,” 101 to 200 “moderate,” 201 to 300 “poor,” 301 to 400 “very poor,” and anything above 400 classified as “severe.” With Delhi currently sitting at 278, authorities urge residents to minimize outdoor activities.
This morning, the minimum temperature in Delhi settled at a chilly 12.7 degrees Celsius, which is 2.6 degrees below the seasonal average. The humidity levels stood at 75% around 8:30 am, and the weather department forecasts a maximum temperature reaching approximately 29 degrees Celsius, going hand-in-hand with expected mist and haze throughout the day.
In response to deteriorating air quality, officials have issued advisories for residents. They recommend avoiding outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and late evening hours, when pollution levels are typically highest. “In these conditions, it is vital to protect your health,” a spokesperson from the CPCB remarked, underscoring the importance of taking precautions.
