Delhi weather update: Dense fog grips Delhi-NCR, AQI plunges to 'very poor' level

Dense fog has descended upon the national capital, severely reducing visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, warning of dense to very dense fog conditions amidst a cold wave. Temperatures are expected to range from a maximum of 17°C to a minimum of 8°C. As of 7:00 am today (January 3, 2025), the temperature recorded is 7°C in Delhi.  Today’s minimum temperature in Delhi is recorded at 9°C (degrees Celsius), and the maximum temperature is expected to go as high as 23°C (degrees Celsius). 

The foggy weather conditions drastically reduced visibility to mere meters, causing commute disruptions and perilous driving conditions. At Palam, visibility plummeted to 100 meters amidst dense fog, accompanied by westerly winds blowing at 6 kmph, recorded at 6:30 am IST. At Safdarjung, visibility was slightly better, with a minimum of 300 meters recorded under moderate fog conditions and calm winds around 5:30 am IST.

January 3, 2025

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi can expect a pleasant day tomorrow, (January 4, 2025) with a minimum temperature of 15.58°C and a maximum of 26.0°C. Humidity levels will be relatively low at 21%. While in Noida, the today's temperature is expected to fluctuate between 9°C and 24°C. While the day will begin with a chilly morning at 9°C, temperatures will rise significantly to reach a high of 24°C, as per reports. The wind is expected to blow at a speed of 3.64 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 5.36 km/h, coming in from 311 degrees. Meanwhile, the sun will rise over the horizon at approximately 07:13 AM and set at around 05:35 PM.

January 3, 2025

Delhi is not only grappling with chilly temperatures, but the city's air quality is also deteriorating, adding to the woes of its residents. The city's air quality has taken a hit, dropping to the 'very poor' category after a brief improvement. As of Friday, at 6 am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 348, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Several areas reported alarming AQI levels, including Jahangirpuri (397), Wazirpur (392), and Patparganj (378).

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a massive Rs 12,500 crore investment to upgrade Delhi's transport network and reduce congestion in a bid to tackle the city's pollution. An additional Rs 1,200 crore from the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) will also be allocated to the national capital.