The inhabitants of Delhi-NCR witnessed a brief respite from severe pollution between November 23-25. The reason for this relief was the unabated moderate north- westerlies which continued for prolonged period. Thus, resulting in diffusement of pollutants and these winds helped in carrying pollutants away from Delhi-NCR.
However, the national capital has once again come under the grip of pollution. Since November 26, the speed of winds has reduced significantly due to the passage of fresh Western Disturbance. Besides this, the winds have also changed its direction and are now blowing from east and south-east.
As per the weather experts, during the transition period of winds from northwest to east or south-east, speed of winds usually decreases which leads to accumulation of pollution in the lower levels of atmosphere near the earth surface. And, this situation is evident since November 26.
Last night, the winds became calm and led to formation of mist during the early morning hours. As per the weathermen, whenever there is mist, the pollutants such as dust particles, smoke particles, vehicular emissions etc. tends to get mingled with prevailing mist. Also, in the absence of moderate/strong winds the pollutants remain suspended near the ground and they don’t get carried away. This is what we Delhiites are witnessing at present.
According to the current data, AQI (Air Quality Index) levels are in very poor category. Chandni Chowk, Noida, Gurugram, Lodhi Road and Pitampura have their AQI over and above 340. Whereas, in Dhirpur it has entered the severe category crossing the mark of 400.
Till November 30, there will be no alterations in minimums. Thereafter, we expect a fall of 2-3 degree-Celsius and then we can experience chilly mornings and evenings.
As per Skymet Weather, no change in weather pattern is expected for coming 2-3 days. Therefore, pollution levels will remain in very poor to severe category and may become hazardous in some pockets of Delhi-NCR.
Image Credit: Skymet Weather
Please Note: Any information picked from here must be attributed to skymetweather.com