Delhi experienced its coldest day this winter, with the minimum temperature dropping to 3.5 degrees Celsius on Sunday, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The city’s maximum temperature reached 20.6 degrees Celsius, slightly above the seasonal average. Saturday had witnessed a minimum temperature of 3.6 degrees Celsius.
The prevailing severe cold conditions have prompted the IMD to forecast dense to very dense fog in the next two days.
Delhi has been grappling with severe cold for the past three days, and the recorded minimum temperature on Sunday marks the lowest of this winter season. The IMD predicts mainly clear skies with dense to very dense fog on Monday morning, extending the foggy conditions and cold waves until January 20.
Visibility dropped to zero at 5 am at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, constituting the longest duration of dense fog this season. This adverse weather impacted transportation, with 22 Delhi-bound trains experiencing delays ranging from one to six hours, according to the Indian Railways.
Understanding the fog severity, the weather office classifies visibility levels: “very dense” when it ranges from 0 to 50 meters, “dense” from 51 to 200 meters, “moderate” from 201 to 500 meters, and “shallow” from 501 to 1,000 meters.
The chilling temperatures and deteriorating air quality pose challenges for residents and authorities alike. The severity of the cold wave is reflected not only in the temperature records but also in the disruption of daily activities, especially in the transportation sector.
As the national capital braces for an extended period of dense fog and cold waves, residents are advised to take necessary precautions. The impact on daily life is evident, from delayed train schedules to compromised visibility at major transportation hubs.
The CPCB’s classification of Delhi’s air quality as “severe” underlines the urgent need for measures to address pollution levels. The scale, ranging from “good” to “severe,” indicates a concerning level of air pollution, emphasizing the importance of environmental policies and individual efforts to mitigate the impact.
The prolonged cold spell adds complexity to the challenge, as it not only affects the daily routines of residents but also requires enhanced preparedness from authorities to manage the associated issues, including transportation delays and potential health risks.
The situation calls for a comprehensive approach, incorporating both short-term measures to alleviate immediate concerns and long-term strategies to address the root causes of air pollution. Public awareness and participation are crucial elements in the collective effort to combat the adverse effects of severe weather conditions on the environment and public health.
In conclusion, Delhi’s recent weather conditions, marked by the lowest winter temperature, dense fog, and severe air pollution, underscore the need for coordinated efforts to address both immediate challenges and the broader issues contributing to the environmental impact. As residents navigate through these conditions, a holistic approach that combines individual responsibility, policy interventions, and public awareness is essential for sustainable improvements in air quality and overall well-being.