Delhi air quality improved to the “moderate” category on Thursday as wind speeds increased across the capital, helping disperse pollutants after several days of poor air conditions.
The Delhi air quality showed relief after several days of poor pollution levels.
Delhi AQI Drops Sharply From Very Poor Levels
A 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 194 was recorded at 9 am on Thursday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. This marked a sharp improvement from an AQI of 305, which fell in the “very poor” category at 4 pm on Wednesday.
Earlier, the AQI stood at 271 on Tuesday and 249 on Monday, both in the “poor” range. On Sunday, the AQI was recorded at 189, which was moderate.
Officials attributed the recent fluctuation to changing wind patterns and the impact of western disturbances.
Wind Speed Helps Improve Delhi Air Quality
Meteorological data showed that stronger winds helped disperse pollutants. Wind speeds reached up to 20 km per hour on Thursday, allowing better air circulation across the region.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, however, cautioned that the AQI may slip back into the “poor” category and remain there until at least Saturday.
Temperature Trends in Delhi Remain Above Normal
The minimum temperature on Thursday stood at 11.6°C, slightly above the seasonal average. On Wednesday, it was recorded at 13.2°C.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects the minimum temperature to stay between 11°C and 13°C on Friday. It may rise by another 1–2°C over the weekend.
The maximum temperature touched 27.5°C on Wednesday, nearly four degrees above normal. It was even higher at 28.6°C on Tuesday. IMD forecasts suggest the maximum temperature will range between 25°C and 28°C till Friday.
Western Disturbances to Affect Weather Conditions
The first of three weak western disturbances began affecting the western Himalayan region from Tuesday. According to IMD officials, wind speeds are expected to increase again from Thursday, which should help improve air quality.
The second western disturbance is likely around February 13, while the third may arrive between February 16 and 17. Isolated rain or snowfall is possible in parts of the western Himalayas during this period.
Chance of Light Drizzle in Delhi Next Week
Private weather agency Skymet Weather said the third western disturbance may bring light, scattered rain to the plains, including Delhi. Skymet vice president Mahesh Palawat said the city could witness a brief drizzle around February 17.
He added that no major change in maximum or minimum temperatures is expected, and temperatures are likely to remain stable.
IMD Forecast on Winds and Pollution Levels
The IMD has predicted wind speeds of 15–20 km per hour during the day on Thursday. Winds may slow slightly to 10–15 km per hour on Friday.
Experts said the change in wind patterns will continue to play a key role in determining Delhi’s air quality in the coming days.
