The capital city experienced its coldest day of the season as the mercury plummeted to 15.6°C on Wednesday, sending shivers through residents and setting a record low for the current winter.
Frozen Mornings, Icy Nights: Delhi Embraces Wintry Chill
Delhiites have been grappling with wintry mornings and nights since New Year’s Eve, with a sudden drop in temperatures making homes and workplaces chilly. The city’s peak temperature, recorded at 15.6°C, marked a stark departure from the average, intensifying the winter chill.
Cold Day Conditions Persist
While the temperature didn’t reach the 4.5-degree threshold for a formal “cold day,” ambient temperatures, measured every three hours since December 31, reveal a consistent dip in the mercury. Icy winds and dense fog in higher altitudes have created cold day-like conditions, impacting daytime temperatures.
Meteorological experts explain that persistent shallow fog or haze in the upper layer has obstructed sunlight, causing a rapid temperature drop after 4 pm. Despite the recorded maximum of 15.6°C, the day’s temperature remained in the low double digits for most parts between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm.
Health Concerns Amidst Cold Spell
Health experts caution that prolonged exposure to such cold conditions can pose physical stress, particularly for individuals with existing health concerns. Blood vessels tend to contract in biting cold, potentially leading to breathing difficulties and increased risks for those with heart ailments.
Forecast and Air Quality
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a gradual increase in temperature over the coming days. While several weather stations in Delhi may continue to experience cold day conditions, a rise in the maximum temperature is expected.
Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality remains in the “very poor” category, highlighting ongoing concerns about pollution. The Commission for Air Quality Management recently lifted severe category measures, but the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 341 underscores the persistent challenges.
As Delhiites bundle up to brave the winter chill, forecasts suggest that the cold spell may continue for the next few days. Stay tuned for updates on weather conditions and health advisories.
