Delhi witnessed sporadic drizzles across multiple regions, including Lodhi Road, Rajouri Garden, Indira Gandhi Airport, and Vasant Kunj. Light showers are also anticipated during Tuesday night.
A Shift in Delhi’s Weather DynamicsThe dawn of Tuesday in Delhi-NCR brought forth an unexpected drizzle, infusing a subtle chill back into the air. Just a day prior, the sun blazed intensely, compelling residents to seek respite from the heat. Yet again, the weather took a surprising turn, adding another chapter to January’s erratic climatic narrative. This month alone has showcased an array of meteorological moods—oscillating between biting cold and intermittent rain showers. As January gradually bows out, the daytime heat has noticeably surged, with nighttime temperatures trailing close behind. The silver lining, however, lies in the temporary relief this rainfall provides from Delhi’s escalating pollution levels.
Previously, air quality indices skyrocketed past 350, prompting the imposition of GRAP-3 restrictions. With an observable improvement in AQI, these constraints have now been lifted.
Current Meteorological Insights light rain was recorded in various pockets of Delhi-NCR, including Lodhi Road, Rajouri Garden, Indira Gandhi Airport, and Vasant Kunj. Forecasts suggest the possibility of similar showers extending into Tuesday night. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), this precipitation has contributed to a slight dip in temperatures. The daytime high in Delhi is projected to settle at 20°C, while the nighttime low will hover around 11°C. Meanwhile, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram are expected to experience highs of 22°C and lows around 12°C.
These fluctuations are attributed to an active western disturbance which is primarily influencing nighttime weather conditions.
Warmest January Since 2019January 2024 has etched its name in the records as Delhi’s warmest since 2019. The mean maximum temperature for the month stood at 21.1°C, surpassing the long-period average (LPA) of 20.1°C by a full degree. IMD data further highlights that nighttime temperatures have consistently remained above normal. The average minimum temperature for January settled at 8.5°C, exceeding the LPA of 7.5°C and marking the highest since 2017, when it stood at 8.7°C.
Meteorologists attribute this unusual warmth to a dominant western disturbance. Under typical conditions, this disturbance ushers in rainfall and moderates temperature levels. However, this year, its influence has been markedly different.
Relaxation of GRAP-3 Restrictions in Delhi to combat the surge in pollution levels, GRAP-3 restrictions had been enforced across Delhi. These curbs mandated the suspension of non-essential construction activities and introduced hybrid learning models for students up to Class 5, allowing parents the option to choose online education. More over the third phase of GRAP prohibited the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles within Delhi and its adjoining NCR districts.
With notable improvements in air quality, these restrictions have now been revoked, bringing some relief to commuters and businesses alike.