New Delhi | RBN News
Delhi witnessed a chilly start to Saturday as the national capital recorded a minimum temperature of 11.8 degrees Celsius, which is 2.4 degrees below the seasonal average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The weather department has forecast strong surface winds during the day, which are expected to influence daytime conditions. The maximum temperature is likely to rise to around 24.8 degrees Celsius, about 1.5 degrees above normal for this time of the year.
At 8:30 a.m., the relative humidity level was recorded at 82 per cent, contributing to a cooler morning feel across the city.
Air Quality Remains a Concern
Delhi’s air quality continued to remain under stress, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 214 at 9:00 a.m., placing it in the ‘poor’ category, as per data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Under CPCB standards:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
An AQI in the ‘poor’ category can cause breathing discomfort to people with lung or heart conditions, while prolonged exposure may also affect otherwise healthy individuals.
Outlook
Meteorologists say that strong winds during the day could help marginally disperse pollutants, but sustained improvement in air quality will depend on broader meteorological conditions.
Residents have been advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and late evening hours, when pollution levels tend to be higher.
