Delhi experienced a hazy morning on Thursday, November 2, 2023, as smog enveloped the city. The current Air Quality Index (AQI) stands at 278, categorizing the air quality as ‘poor.’ The Air Quality Early Warning System projects that pollution levels will worsen, potentially slipping into the ‘very poor’ category between November 6 and 8, raising concerns for residents and health experts.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed that Delhi’s AQI reached 278 today, marking a worrying trend. Experts predict further deterioration by evening due to stagnant wind conditions and the accumulation of pollutants in the atmosphere.
The Early Warning System indicates that wind speeds may rise to 15 kmph from the northwest direction during the afternoon. However, these speeds are expected to drop below 10 kmph later in the evening. The forecast suggests a mainly clear sky, with lingering mist and haze, adding to the discomfort for many.
According to CPCB guidelines, an AQI from 0 to 50 indicates “good” quality, while 51 to 100 is “satisfactory.” Levels classified as 101 to 200 are marked as “moderate.” The range of 201 to 300 is deemed “poor,” whereas AQI levels above 301 are categorized as “very poor” and above 401 as “severe.”
As residents grapple with unhealthy air conditions, the minimum temperature recorded in Delhi dropped to 12.7 degrees Celsius, which is 2.6 degrees lower than the seasonal average. Furthermore, humidity levels hovered around 75 percent at 8:30 AM. The maximum temperature is likely to be around 29 degrees Celsius, and the weather department anticipates mist and haze will persist throughout the day.
In light of these conditions, health officials advise residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly during early mornings and late evenings. The hazardous air quality poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. It remains crucial for residents to stay informed and take precautions against the deteriorating air quality.
