Delhi was choked with hazardous pollution conditions between November 8 and 13. The reason for this was attributed to the fact that winds were light and variable during that time. Moreover, the direction of winds was from east and southeast.
These winds increased the humidity levels considerably over the entire Delhi region. Due to which, pollutants such as smoke, dust particles and harmful gases got mixed with haze and mist, thus forming a layer of smog. Occasionally, the direction of winds changed to northwest which led to the accumulation of smoke (emerging from stubble burning going on in the neighboring states of Haryana and Punjab). The Government of Delhi was even planning to enforce various measures to curb the rising pollution levels.
Although, all the measures whether it was restricting the entry of heavy vehicles in the city, stopping construction work or restoring to Odd-Even formula would not have reduced the pollution to the desired levels, but the most effective remedy was nature- either strong winds or rains!
Fortunately, Delhi received good rains on November 13 and 14 which reduced the pollution levels significantly. Apart from this, as Skymet Weather had predicted, dry North-westerly winds have gained speed and are now blowing over the region (at a speed of 18-20 kmph) which has reduced the pollution further.
However, another Western Disturbance is expected to approach around November 18 during which the winds may lose their strength. However, pollution levels will not increase immediately due to this.
Image Credits – SteemKR
Any information taken from here should be credited to Skymet Weather