Delhi residents experienced a hazy Thursday morning as a blanket of smog enveloped the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a concerning level of 278, categorizing the air quality as ‘poor.’ According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, forecasters expect pollution levels to decrease further, potentially reaching the ‘very poor’ category between November 6 and 8.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicated that the national capital’s AQI was 278 this morning. Experts caution that air quality could deteriorate further by evening due to stagnant wind speeds and the accumulation of airborne pollutants.
The Early Warning System anticipates wind speeds gradually increasing to 15 km/h from the northwest this afternoon before declining to below 10 km/h by evening. Meanwhile, the sky is likely to remain predominantly clear, although mist and haze will linger.
According to CPCB classifications, the AQI levels range from ‘good’ at 0-50 to ‘severe’ at 401-500. The current level of 278 places Delhi in the ‘poor’ category, indicating potential health impacts for residents.
Temperature readings show a minimum of 12.7 degrees Celsius, which is 2.6 degrees below the usual seasonal average. Additionally, the relative humidity was at 75% as of 8:30 am. As the day progresses, the maximum temperature is expected to reach approximately 29 degrees Celsius, with mist and haze forecasted throughout the day.
Health officials recommend that residents limit outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and late evening hours, as pollution levels pose concerns for public health across the capital.