Delhi's Air Quality Improves After Overnight Rain
Delhi woke up to a refreshing change after experiencing overnight rain, which brought a much-needed improvement in the city’s air quality. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), rainfall amounts ranged from 10 to 13 mm across various regions, leading to a drop in temperatures. The minimum temperature recorded on Monday morning was 20.4 degrees Celsius, nearly four degrees cooler than the previous day.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped significantly from 159 to 123 by 7 am. While Anand Vihar remained the most polluted area with an AQI of 205, Lodhi Road reported the cleanest air at an AQI of 78. Although the average PM 2.5 levels at Lodhi Road were slightly above the permissible limit, the overall air quality showed a positive trend.
The improvement in air quality was attributed to the light to moderate rainfall that occurred late on Sunday night, influenced by a fresh western disturbance affecting northwest India. Areas like Safdarjung received 10.3 mm of rain, while Pitampura experienced 13.5 mm, contributing to the cooler temperatures and better air quality.
The IMD’s daily bulletin indicated that gusty winds of 30-40 kmph, with some areas experiencing speeds up to 50 kmph, would persist throughout the day. This weather pattern is expected to help prevent pollutant accumulation in the atmosphere. The IMD also forecasted generally cloudy skies with occasional light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
Looking ahead, light rain is anticipated on Tuesday morning, followed by partly cloudy skies with maximum temperatures expected around 30-31°C and minimums near 23°C. This post-monsoon rainfall, along with sustained wind speeds, is expected to keep Delhi’s air cleaner for an extended period this season.
An additional positive factor contributing to improved air quality is the unusually low levels of stubble burning in neighboring states. Recent data indicated no farm fires in Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, or Delhi, with only a few incidents reported in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. A total of 210 farm fires have been reported across five states since September 15, significantly lower than in previous years for the same timeframe.
Meteorologists attribute this decline in stubble burning to the delayed harvest season and the impact of earlier floods in Punjab, which have hindered the burning of paddy residue. This combination of factors paints a hopeful picture for Delhi’s air quality as the city continues to grapple with pollution challenges.
