A cold wave gripped Delhi and certain parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) on Tuesday, with the Indian Meteorological Department recording a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius. A layer of fog also engulfed parts of the city as the air quality index (AQI) was recorded in the poor category, with a reading of 295 at 9 am.
The maximum temperature is likely to settle at 23 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, the IMD said. The relative humidity at 8:30 am stood at 87 per cent. In this video, you can see a layer of fog around the famous Akshardham temple in Delhi.
The cold wave conditions in North India prompted people to gather around bonfires. Western UP, including Meerut, registered a significant drop in temperatures.
Meanwhile, the average air quality index (AQI) stood in the poor category, with a reading of 295 at 9 AM. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe.
On Monday, the minimum temperature had dipped to 6.8 degrees Celsius as a dense layer of fog covered the national capital. The city has been recording a constant dip in the temperature ahead of Christmas and New Year. Additionally, some sought refuge at a night shelter located near AIIMS to protect themselves from the cold weather.
ALSO READ: Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi 'Requested Not To Attend' Ram Temple Event Due To Age: Trust Official
According to a resident, the temperature felt lower compared to the last two days, reported ANI. The dense fog significantly prolonged travel times, making it more challenging to reach destinations due to reduced visibility.
Forecasts suggest a continuation of this cold spell, with the minimum temperature anticipated to fluctuate between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius throughout this week. Friday, December 22, is expected to witness the lowest temperature at 5 degrees Celsius.