New Delhi, M – A sharp dip in temperatures was recorded in the national capital on Saturday as cold winds blowing at speeds of up to 40 kmph provided respite from the rising heat. However, the relief is expected to be short-lived, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a gradual rise in temperatures in the coming days.
According to IMD data, the Safdarjung Observatory—Delhi’s base weather station—recorded a minimum temperature of 15.5°C, which was 2.6°C below normal and over 5 degrees lower than Friday’s 20.9°C. Several other parts of the city experienced even cooler temperatures, with the Ridge station recording a low of 10.2°C—9.4°C below normal.
The maximum temperature was recorded at 29.6°C, marking the first time since March 17 that the day’s high remained below 30 degrees.
IMD Forecast: Temperatures to Rise, Air Quality Improves
The IMD has predicted that strong winds will persist on Sunday, keeping the temperatures in check for now. However, the mercury is expected to climb gradually through the week.
“The maximum and minimum temperatures over Delhi are likely to be around 32°C and 16°C, respectively. Surface winds from the northwest will blow at speeds of 10-12 kmph in the morning, increasing slightly at night,” an IMD official said.
The cold winds also led to a significant improvement in air quality, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to 153 (moderate category) on Saturday, after five consecutive days in the poor category.
Following the improvement, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted Stage 1 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which had been enforced since March 24.
“Considering the improving AQI trend, the GRAP Sub-Committee unanimously decided to withdraw Stage-I restrictions,” the official order stated.
The Air Quality Early Warning System has predicted that Delhi’s AQI will remain in the “moderate” category for the next six days, as winds continue to aid in pollution dispersion.
While the capital enjoys a temporary break from soaring temperatures, Delhiites should prepare for warmer days ahead as the city heads deeper into summer.
