Delhi-NCR Weather Today: Clear skies prevail, but rising air pollution and poor AQI levels raise health concerns ahead of Diwali (Img: Pinterest)
New Delhi: India is witnessing contrasting weather conditions on October 21, with heavy rainfall expected across parts of southern India, dry skies over Delhi-NCR and early snowfall reported in higher Himalayan regions. While northern cities are experiencing a gradual seasonal transition, worsening air quality in the national capital has raised concerns ahead of the festive season.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. Chennai and neighbouring districts may experience thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. A yellow alert has been issued for several Tamil Nadu districts, while heavy showers could continue in parts of southern India over the coming days. Kerala and Karnataka are also likely to receive rainfall in several areas. Residents are advised to monitor local weather alerts and exercise caution while travelling.
Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and neighbouring areas are expected to remain largely dry with mainly clear skies. The maximum temperature in Delhi is likely to hover around 32°C, while minimum temperatures may fall to around 18–19°C. Mornings and evenings are set to become relatively cooler, although daytime conditions remain warm.
Higher-altitude areas of the Western Himalayas have reported early snowfall, including parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Ladakh. The changing conditions signal a seasonal shift with colder temperatures expected in mountainous areas.
Delhi’s air quality is already raising concerns even before Diwali celebrations begin. Despite largely clear skies, the national capital is struggling with high pollution levels, with AQI.in reporting a US AQI reading of 269 at 8:41 am on October 21. PM2.5 levels stood at 203 µg/m³, highlighting the growing health risks posed by fine particulate matter.
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The elevated AQI is a concern as the city approaches the festive season, when increased traffic, construction dust and changing weather conditions can add to the pollution burden. With Diwali still ahead, the existing air quality situation has renewed questions about how pollution levels may change during the celebrations, particularly if firecrackers are used.
For now, residents are advised to monitor daily AQI updates and limit prolonged outdoor activity when pollution levels are high. Children, older adults and people with respiratory conditions should take extra precautions as Delhi enters the festive period with air quality already under strain.
