The National Capital Region (NCR) is bracing for a double whammy of severe weather conditions as winter intensifies. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert forecasting a sharp drop in minimum temperatures, while air quality across the region is predicted to remain in the hazardous categories for the coming week.
Cold Wave Grips Delhi: Minimum Temperature to Plummet
The IMD forecast indicates that the minimum temperature in Delhi and its surrounding areas is set to fall significantly, potentially touching 6 degrees Celsius in isolated pockets. This sharp dip is being attributed to persistent cold northwesterly winds blowing from the snow-clad Himalayas and clear night skies.
While the overall city temperature may hover slightly higher, the approach of the minimum mark towards $6^{\circ}\text{C}$ signals the onset of intense cold wave conditions, especially during the late night and early morning hours. Residents are advised to take extreme precautions against the cold.
| Area | Minimum Temperature Forecast | Status |
| Delhi-NCR | Approaching 6 C | Cold Wave Conditions |
| Maximum Temp | Below 24 C | Chilly Days Expected |
AQI Crisis: Ghaziabad and Faridabad Enter 'Severe' Zone
Compounding the biting cold is the alarmingly poor air quality across the NCR. The forecast models indicate that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in key satellite cities, particularly Ghaziabad and Faridabad, is likely to remain above the 400 mark—categorized as 'Severe' or 'Hazardous'—until at least December 11.
The main meteorological factors contributing to the severe pollution are extremely low wind speeds and a phenomenon known as temperature inversion, which traps pollutants close to the ground.
| City | Expected AQI Range (Dec 6 - Dec 11) | Health Category |
| Ghaziabad | 400+ | Severe / Hazardous |
| Faridabad | 400+ | Severe / Hazardous |
| Delhi (Overall) | 301-400 | Very Poor |
An AQI reading above 400 is considered highly dangerous, affecting not just those with existing respiratory conditions but also posing serious health risks to healthy individuals, especially children and the elderly.
Health Advisory Issued
Health authorities have urged residents of Ghaziabad and Faridabad to avoid all outdoor physical exertion during this period. The general public across Delhi-NCR is strongly advised to:
- Limit time spent outdoors, especially during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening).
- Use N95 masks when stepping out.
- Keep windows closed to maintain cleaner indoor air.
- Monitor air quality forecasts regularly.
The combination of plummeting temperatures and severe air pollution poses a serious challenge, demanding immediate precautions from residents and renewed emergency action from pollution control bodies.
