Residents of New Delhi woke up to a welcome change on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, as sunny and pleasant weather replaced the hazardous smog that choked the city just a day earlier. While the clear skies offer a respite, caution is still advised due to lingering pollution concerns. This forecast, based on data from AQI.in, provides a comprehensive guide for daily and weekly planning.
Today's Pleasant Weather: A Detailed Look
The capital began its day with a crisp morning, where temperatures hovered around a cool 15.2°C. As the sun climbed higher, the mercury rose steadily, promising a warm and comfortable afternoon high of 26°C. The day is marked by very low humidity, pegged at just 21%, and gentle winds with speeds up to 16.2 km/h.
There is absolutely no chance of rain or snow, and visibility stands excellent at 10 km, making conditions ideal for outdoor activities. By evening, temperatures are expected to dip to a cool 19°C, perfect for a stroll or an alfresco dinner. However, it's wise to carry a light jacket.
Contrast With Yesterday's Severe Air Pollution
Today's pleasant conditions stand in stark contrast to the severe air quality crisis the city faced on Monday, December 15. The Air Quality Index (AQI) had plummeted to a dangerous 476, a level classified as 'very hazardous'.
A breakdown of the pollutants revealed alarming concentrations: PM2.5 at 315 µg/m³, PM10 at 435 µg/m³, and carbon monoxide (CO) at 515 µg/m³. These levels pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions.
While today's sunny weather and winds aid in dispersing pollutants, the effects of such severe pollution do not vanish overnight. "The lingering effects of yesterday’s poor air quality mean that caution is still advised," experts note, recommending masks in high-traffic areas.
Weekly Outlook and Practical Recommendations
The forecast for the rest of the week promises consistent sunny weather with moderate temperatures, which should help gradually improve air quality further.
Here is the daily temperature outlook:
- December 17: High of 27.3°C, Low of 16.5°C
- December 18 & 19: High around 26°C, Low near 16°C
- December 20 & 21: Slightly cooler afternoons (25.3°C - 26.1°C), calm winds
- December 22: High of 27.5°C
No rain is expected all week, with low humidity prevailing. For those planning outdoor events, December 20 and 21 are highlighted as the best days due to calm winds and slightly cooler afternoons.
Given the mix of good weather and pollution concerns, here are some practical tips for Delhi residents:
- Consider a morning walk or jog in a park when air quality is relatively better.
- If outdoors in the afternoon, use sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Carry a mask, especially if navigating heavy traffic zones or spending long periods outside.
- Enjoy evening outdoor dinners but keep a jacket handy for the cool temperatures.
Yesterday's AQI of 476 was the highest recorded this week, underscoring the city's persistent pollution challenge. However, the stable, sunny weather pattern ahead offers hope for a steady improvement, allowing residents to cautiously enjoy the winter sun.
