Residents of Delhi NCR are bracing for light to moderate rainfall as predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The showers, accompanied by light thunderstorms and lightning, are expected to bring temporary relief from air pollution but intensify the ongoing cold wave in the region.
Rainfall Forecast
According to the IMD, several areas of Delhi, including Rohini, Dwarka, Palam, IGI Airport, Mundaka, Pashchim Vihar, Rajouri Garden, and Ayanagar, are likely to experience rainfall over the next few hours.
In the National Capital Region (NCR), rainfall is anticipated in locations such as Gurugram, Manesar, Karnal, Panipat, Sonipat, Rewari, and Kosali in Haryana, and Saharanpur, Shamli, Kandhla, and Bagpat in Uttar Pradesh.
The IMD has also warned of isolated hailstorms and heavy rainfall in specific areas like Nazafgarh and Jafarpur in Delhi and Bahadurgarh in NCR.
Temperature and Air Quality
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 11.4°C early Monday morning, with a predicted maximum of around 18°C for the day. Dense fog enveloped several areas, reducing visibility significantly, and causing disruptions in transportation.
Meanwhile, the city’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with an AQI of 316 recorded at 6 AM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
Revocation of GRAP Stage-III Measures
In a positive development, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked Stage-III actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to improved air quality levels. However, Stage-I and Stage-II measures will remain in place to address ongoing pollution concerns.
The decision followed a review of air quality data and forecasts indicating a consistent downward trend in AQI levels.
Travel Disruptions
Sunday saw significant disruptions in travel as dense fog affected visibility, leading to delays for 51 trains and rescheduling of several flights. Travelers are advised to check updates before heading to their destinations.
As rainfall continues in the region, residents are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts and plan their travel accordingly.
