HEADLINES INDIA January 30, 2025

Delhi Weather Update: IMD Forecasts Rain and Rising Temperatures Amid Western Disturbance Impact

Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates as Wind Speed Drops

The air quality in Delhi-NCR worsened significantly on Wednesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 300, falling into the ‘severe’ category. Due to low wind speeds and increasing pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed GRAP-3 restrictions, which include:

Ban on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles
Halt on construction activities
Hybrid mode for classes up to 5th grade

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi recorded an average AQI of 365 on Wednesday, a level classified as ‘very poor’.

Current Weather Conditions & IMD Predictions

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that Delhi’s AQI, which was at 276 on January 28, spiked to 365 on January 29 by 4 PM. The rise in pollution is attributed to:

Changing wind directions
Low wind speeds
Foggy conditions
Lower mixing height
Poor ventilation for pollutant dispersion

The IMD and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) forecast that similar conditions will persist for the next few days, keeping air quality poor.

Temperature to Rise Due to Western Disturbance

With the Western Disturbance now affecting northwest India, eastern winds have started flowing, leading to a gradual temperature increase.

Maximum Temperature (Jan 31): 25.5°C (3°C above normal)
Expected Range (Weekend): 24°C 27°C
Night Temperature Forecast: Rising to 10°C 12°C by the weekend
Weather Outlook for February 1: Clear skies expected

Cloud cover will keep nights warmer, leading to mild nighttime temperatures.

Rain Expected in Delhi on February 1-2

Two Western Disturbances will impact Delhi and nearby regions in the first week of February.

Light Rainfall Expected on February 1-2 The IMD predicts light rain in Delhi and surrounding areas during these two days.
Temperature Drop Unlikely While rain may bring temporary relief, no significant temperature drop is expected.
Cold Winds from Snowfall in the Himalayas Fresh snowfall in the northern mountains will push cold winds towards Delhi, leading to a possible slight dip in temperatures post-rainfall.