January 2022 finished by recording the heaviest monthly rainfall, since the time reliable records started getting maintained. All parts of the city received excess rainfall and the base observatory Safdarjung registered 88.2mm, against the normal of 19.3mm. This was the heaviest downpour since 1901, means last 122 years. Along with rainfall, there were record number of 7 cold days, including 2 severe cold days. Also, the mean maximum temperature stayed at 18°C, against the normal of 20.4°C and being the 2nd lowest since 2003 when the month averaged with 17.6°C.
Month of February has made a wet start with light showers over most parts, commencing early morning today. Base station Safdarjung measured just 0.6mm, Lodhi Road 0.3mm and Narela 6.0mm till 8.30am. Overcast sky with intermittent rain is expected to continue throughout the day. Intense showers will be confined to a few pockets and that too for a short duration.
An active western disturbance over the hills has induced a cyclonic circulation over Rajasthan and Haryana, reaching the outskirts of Delhi. However, the weather system is not finding much support for the plains in the upper levels, so essential to have any strong and fierce activity. However, persistent clouds and speedy winds will suppress the day temperatures. The minimum temperature, as such, has gone to double-digit and will stay put for another 24hr.
The weather activity will start receding tomorrow onwards and complete exit on 05thFeb and later. Mercury level is going to dive again with the minimum returning to single-digit and hovering between 7-9°C between 05th and 10thFeb. Meanwhile, no extreme cold during the day and bitter chill is expected during this period.