Delhi Rain Likely as Western Disturbance Hits North India

Rainfall Likely in Delhi Due to Intense Western Disturbance; AQI Remains Poor

New Delhi: The national capital witnessed deteriorating air quality on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 281 at 7:30 am, placing it in the “poor” category. At the same time, changing weather conditions are expected to bring rainfall and cooler temperatures to the city over the next few days.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather activity in Delhi is being influenced by an intense western disturbance affecting north India. This system is expected to cause light to moderate rainfall in the plains of northwest India, including Delhi, while triggering rainfall and snowfall across the western Himalayan region.

The IMD stated in its national bulletin that the western disturbance could lead to isolated heavy rain or snowfall, hailstorms, and thunderstorms, along with strong surface winds ranging between 40–50 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 60 kmph in some areas.

Delhi Weather Forecast (January 27 – February 1)

January 27: Light rain or thundershowers are expected, accompanied by strong gusty winds. Temperatures are likely to range between 9°C and 19°C, with high humidity levels.

January 28: Moderate fog is expected during the morning hours, potentially reducing visibility. The minimum temperature may hover around 12°C, while the maximum could reach 18°C.

January 29: Morning fog will continue, with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 18°C.

January 30: Moderate fog is likely again in the early hours. Temperatures may vary from 9°C to 19°C.

January 31: Foggy conditions are expected in the morning, with gradual improvement later in the day. The minimum temperature will remain near 9°C, while the maximum may rise to 20°C.

February 1: Morning fog is likely to persist, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to around 21°C.

Coldest Republic Day in Five Years

Delhi recorded its coldest Republic Day in five years, with temperatures dropping sharply on Monday. The last time similar conditions were observed was in 2021, when the minimum temperature had fallen to 2.1°C.

At Safdarjung Observatory, which serves as the city’s benchmark weather station, the minimum temperature was recorded at 4.2°C, nearly 4 degrees below normal for this time of year. This followed higher minimum temperatures of 6.6°C on Sunday and 7.6°C on Saturday.

Meteorological officials attributed the sharp fall in temperatures to clear skies and persistent cold northwesterly winds over the weekend. However, wind speeds eased on Monday due to the approaching western disturbance.