Delhi ecorded 33 degree Celsius as its maximum temperature on November 7 which was 4 degrees above normal. This is the highest maximum over Delhi since 2008. On November 4th in 2008, maximum was 33.5 degrees. However, record is of 36.1 degree Celsius established on November 3rd in 2001. At 17.2-degree, minimum temperature also remained above normal by 3 degrees.
On the other hand, Air Quality Index of Delhi and NCR reduced to some extent but remained in poor to very poor category. The contribution of smoke from stubble burning reduced to just 18%. Reason for the reduction in the share of smoke from stubble burning can be attributed to continuous flow of easterly and South easterly winds.
Most of the stubble burning is taking place in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana with major share of farm fire in Punjab. These states are in northwest of Delhi. Easterly winds are restricting the flow of smoke towards Delhi. Easterly winds are expected to continue for another 2 to 3 days.
Normal flow of winds from northwest may commence from November 11 or 12. By that time most of the stubble burning will get over. Moreover, the speed of north westerly winds are also expected to increase from November 12 leading to reduction in air pollution.
There may be some relief from ongoing very poor AQI. But there will not get clear up until there is widespread rain.