Dense Fog and Cold Wave Conditions Persist in National Capital

The national capital is currently under the grip of dense fog and cold wave conditions, with temperatures dropping significantly. The India Meteorological Department has reported minimum temperatures around 9 degrees Celsius, while air quality remains in the 'very poor' category. The air quality index (AQI) has recorded alarming levels, particularly in areas like NSIT Dwarka. With predictions of continued cold weather and fog, residents are advised to stay updated on the changing conditions. For more insights and detailed forecasts, read the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 12:00 IST

Weather Conditions in Delhi

On Friday morning, dense fog enveloped the national capital, creating conditions reminiscent of a cold day, as reported by the meteorological department. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature recorded at Safdarjung was 9.1 degrees Celsius, with similar readings noted at other locations.

In Palam and Lodhi Road, the minimum temperature was 9 degrees Celsius, while it was 8.7 degrees Celsius at Ridge and 8.1 degrees Celsius in Ayanagar. The weather department indicated that a cold wave is likely to affect various areas from January 2 to January 5.

A cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature drops between 4.5 to 6.5 degrees Celsius below the normal average. Conversely, a cold day is recognized when the maximum temperature is 4.5 degrees Celsius below the usual levels.

The weather office also mentioned that many areas in Delhi may experience dense to very dense fog during the night and morning hours, with maximum temperatures expected to reach around 18 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, the air quality in the national capital remained in the 'very poor' category, although a slight improvement was noted. The air quality index (AQI) recorded in the morning was 302.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between 0 to 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'.

Data from the CPCB's 'Sameer' app indicated that 19 monitoring stations fell into the 'very poor' category, 15 into 'poor', and one into 'severe'. The worst air quality was recorded at NSIT Dwarka, where the AQI reached 423.

The average AQI over the past 24 hours was 380. The air quality early warning system predicts that the air quality will likely remain in the 'very poor' category until January 4, with similar conditions expected for the following six days.