Delhi's Winter Day: Sunshine and Severe Pollution Coexist
New Delhi woke up to a bright and sunny Tuesday on January 13, 2026. The city experienced comfortable winter weather with clear skies throughout the day. Morning temperatures started at a cool 9.1°C, but the afternoon brought pleasant warmth, peaking at 20.4°C.
Weather Conditions and Comfort Levels
The day remained firmly sunny from sunrise to sunset. Sunrise occurred at 7:15 AM, while sunset was at 5:44 PM. Humidity levels stayed relatively low at around 32%, making the sunshine feel comfortable rather than sticky. Winds remained light to moderate, reaching speeds up to 12.6 km/h.
Residents enjoyed the direct sunlight during late morning and afternoon hours. The evening brought a noticeable cool-down after sunset, making light layers advisable for those venturing out after office hours. No rainfall was expected, with a 0% chance of precipitation.
Air Quality Remains a Major Concern
Despite the beautiful weather, air pollution presented a significant challenge. Monday's air quality index (AQI) reached 349, falling into the "Severe" category. These dangerous levels were expected to persist through Tuesday.
The pollution primarily consisted of high particulate matter. PM2.5 levels measured 209, while PM10 reached 277. Carbon monoxide (CO) was recorded at 223, adding to the atmospheric pollution load.
Health Advisories and Precautions
Medical experts issued clear recommendations for Delhi residents. They advised wearing masks when outdoors, especially for vulnerable groups. People with asthma, allergies, sinus issues, or heart and respiratory conditions should limit outdoor exertion.
The situation represents a classic "good weather, bad air" scenario for Delhi winters. While the afternoon sun felt lovely, pollution levels remained dangerously high. Residents were encouraged to take specific precautions:
- Wear well-fitting masks while riding two-wheelers or walking near busy roads
- Choose parks away from traffic for outdoor exercise
- Time outdoor activities for midday to early afternoon when temperatures are most comfortable
- Keep windows open only briefly for ventilation if the local area appears hazy
Weather and Pollution Interaction
Sunshine provides limited help in dispersing pollution during Delhi's winter months. Light winds and absence of rain mean particles remain trapped closer to the ground. As one expert noted, "People often assume blue skies mean clean air, but Delhi's winter pollution can remain high even on bright days."
Weekly Weather Outlook
The forecast for the coming week looks promising for weather enthusiasts. From January 14 to January 19, Delhi can expect:
- Continued sunny and dry conditions
- A clear warming trend with daytime highs rising from 20.7°C to 25.5°C
- Warmer nights moving from 9-10°C to 14-15°C
- Mostly gentle winds under 15 km/h
- No rainfall expected throughout the week
Sunday, January 18, and Monday, January 19, appear especially pleasant based on temperature forecasts. These days could be suitable for family outings or long walks, though air quality monitoring remains essential. Skywatchers might note the New Moon arriving on January 18, offering darker night skies where city lights and haze permit.
This weather data comes from reliable meteorological sources, providing accurate information for Delhi residents planning their daily activities and health precautions.
