Delhi Shivers in Record Low Temperatures, Cold Wave to Ease by Thursday
Image Source: Internet
Delhi continued to battle a biting cold wave for a fourth consecutive day, with temperatures plummeting to 3.8°C at Safdarjung, the city's primary weather monitoring station. The mercury dropped to 3.6°C at Lodhi Road, 4°C at Ayanagar, 4.4°C at Palam, and 4.6°C at Ridge, marking the coldest spell in three years since January 2023. The severe chill was accompanied by hazardous air quality, with a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 354 (very poor) recorded on Wednesday morning. This is a significant deterioration from Tuesday's reading of 360 (poor) at 4 pm. However, relief is in sight as a feeble western disturbance is expected to bring an end to the cold wave conditions by Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to rise to 4-6°C on Thursday, 5-7°C on Friday, and 8-10°C by Sunday, marking a welcome respite from the biting cold. According to the India Meteorological Department, multiple weather stations across the city recorded temperatures of 4°C or lower on Wednesday, confirming the presence of a cold wave. The IMD defines a cold wave as a situation where the minimum temperature is below 10°C, with a departure of 4.5°C or more from normal. In this case, the minimum temperature of 4°C or lower also meets the criteria for a cold wave. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi has predicted 'very poor' air quality until January 22, underscoring the need for residents to take necessary precautions to protect their health.
