Despite below-average temperatures in February this year, the national capital witnessed its best air quality on record, according to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Delhi, notorious for its high pollution levels, saw 15 days of air quality index (AQI) readings in the “good” and “moderate” categories, the highest since records began in 2016.
Air quality status of Delhi
The average concentration of PM 2.5 particles was also the lowest recorded at 104 micrograms per cubic meter, contributing to an average AQI of 218 for the month, the lowest ever.
This improvement comes despite the lower-than-normal temperatures, which typically lead to the accumulation of pollutants in the air.
Colder February
Weather experts attribute the lower temperatures to the increased pollution levels. Although the average maximum temperature for the month was 23.9 degrees Celsius, the lowest since 2019, the minimum temperature was the lowest in at least 12 years.
Temperatures in Delhi to remain below normal
The forecast suggests that temperatures in Delhi will continue to remain below normal in the upcoming days, with light rain and gusty winds expected on Friday evening. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 27 degrees Celsius, dropping to 24 degrees on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday may see strong winds and moderate rain.
However, by the end of next week, temperatures are anticipated to rise back to 26 degrees Celsius during the day. On Thursday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 27.6 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of 11.4 degrees Celsius.