Delhi Weather Update: IMD Issues Orange Alert for Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Across Multiple Areas
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Nowcast Warning for rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in several parts of Delhi on Friday morning. This alert comes as shallow fog is also predicted during the early hours, adding to the weather disruptions. The IMD specifically highlighted that areas such as Dwarka, Rajouri Garden, Nazafgarh, and Rohini will be significantly affected by these conditions.
Detailed Forecast and Affected Localities
According to the IMD, light to moderate rainfall is expected, accompanied by thunderstorms and moderate gusty winds with speeds ranging from 40 to 60 kilometers per hour. This weather pattern is likely to impact a wide range of localities across the national capital. The following areas are anticipated to experience these adverse conditions:
- Narela
- Bawana
- Alipur
- Burari
- Kanjhawala
- Rohini
- Badili
- Model Town
- Azadpur
- Pitampura
- Mundaka
- Paschim Vihar
- Punjabi Bagh
- Rajouri Garden
- Jafarpur
- Nazafgarh
- Dwarka
In the broader National Capital Region, similar weather warnings have been issued for Bahadurgarh. Additionally, parts of Haryana, including Rohtak, Jhajjar, Farukhnagar, Mahendargarh, and Narnaul, as well as Kotputli in Rajasthan, are forecast to experience rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds. Early morning reports indicated gusty winds of 37 kilometers per hour at Delhi's IGI Airport, Palam, at 4:30 AM.
Causes and Further Weather Predictions
The IMD attributes the early Friday morning rain spell over Delhi to an ongoing western disturbance. This meteorological phenomenon is expected to bring another spell of very light to light rain during the afternoon or evening on Friday. Consequently, a yellow alert has been issued for thunderstorms and rain, advising residents to stay cautious throughout the day.
Delhi's Air Quality Index Remains in 'Very Poor' Category
Despite the anticipated rainfall, which often helps in reducing pollution levels, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. The overall 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 313, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 7 AM, the AQI was recorded at 312, indicating little immediate improvement.
To provide context, the CPCB classifies AQI as follows:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
Station-wise data revealed that Wazirpur was the worst affected area with an AQI of 356. According to the Sameer app, 29 monitoring stations across Delhi registered in the 'very poor' category, while nine were in the 'poor' category.
Regulatory Actions and Future Air Quality Outlook
In response to the air quality situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Thursday, citing an improvement in overall air quality. However, measures under Stages I and II continue to remain in force to mitigate pollution levels.
Looking ahead, forecasts from the Air Quality and Weather Forecasting System (AQWS) suggest that air quality is likely to remain in the 'moderate' category on January 23 and 24. However, it is expected to slip back into the 'poor' category by January 25, indicating a need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures.
This comprehensive weather and air quality update underscores the dual challenges faced by Delhi residents, combining severe meteorological conditions with persistent pollution issues. Authorities urge the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this period.
