Delhi-NCR is under siege from a ferocious cold wave and alarming air pollution, as per latest IMD bulletins. A 6°C nosedive in minimum temperatures has intensified the freeze, while pervasive fog cripples visibility and transport networks in early hours and nights.
January 29 outlook: max 18°C, min 7°C, dense fog warning active. January 30: 19°C/8°C, with fog easing to moderate levels.
By January 31, weather patterns shift unpredictably—20°C highs, 7°C lows, risks of rain, thunder, and blustery winds. February 1 demands utmost preparedness: all-day thunderstorms, lightning, downpours, and 30-40 km/h winds, temperatures 12-18°C.
Pollution exacerbates woes. Noida readings: Sector-1 299, 125 291, 116 287, 62 232. Ghaziabad: Indirapuram 331, Loni peaks at 340, Vasundhara 323, Sanjay Nagar 212.
In the capital, Anand Vihar (334), Rohini (311), RK Puram (316), Punjabi Bagh (302), Patparganj (306), Chandni Chowk (312), Siri Fort (315). Exceptions like Shadipur (138), Aya Nagar (178) offer slim respite.
Officials recommend minimizing outdoor time, extra care for seniors and kids, and storm readiness. This toxic cocktail of cold and smog signals deeper environmental challenges for one of India’s busiest urban corridors, calling for sustained action.