New Delhi: The national capital woke up to hazy sunshine on Wednesday morning as a blanket of pollution-laden air continued to cover the Delhi-NCR region. The day began with a minimum temperature of around 24°C, while the mercury is expected to climb up to 32°C by afternoon, making it a warm and slightly uncomfortable day for residents.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi will remain dry throughout the day, with no rainfall expected. The sky will stay hazy, reducing visibility during early hours and late evening.
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Rising pollution levels
The haze is primarily attributed to rising pollution levels and post-harvest stubble burning in neighbouring states. Air quality in several parts of Delhi, including Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Dwarka, was recorded in the ‘poor to very poor’ category on Wednesday morning.
The afternoon is expected to be the hottest part of the day, with the temperature hovering around 31–32°C, while evening temperatures will drop slightly to 27°C. Humidity levels are likely to remain moderate. Health experts have advised people, especially the elderly and children, to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and to wear masks when stepping out.
The IMD further stated that northwesterly winds are expected to continue over the plains of north India, keeping conditions mostly dry. Cooler nights are expected later in the week as the post-monsoon season gradually transitions towards early winter.
Uttar Pradesh: Warm Day, Clear Evening Skies
Neighbouring Uttar Pradesh also witnessed hazy skies on Wednesday morning, though conditions are expected to clear up by the evening. Cities such as Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, and Prayagraj started the day with temperatures around 25°C, rising to 31–32°C during the afternoon.
The IMD has forecast dry weather for most parts of the state, with no rain predicted for the next 24 hours. Hazy sunshine will dominate until late afternoon, giving way to clearer skies in the evening. The western and central districts may experience slightly higher temperatures compared to the eastern parts.
Environmental experts have attributed the haze to seasonal dust and increased vehicular emissions. Despite the warmth, evening conditions are likely to be pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The department has urged farmers to avoid burning crop residue as the stagnant air may worsen pollution levels across the state.
Uttarakhand: Cool Mornings, Mild Afternoons
In contrast to the plains, the hill state of Uttarakhand enjoyed a much cooler start to the day. Morning temperatures in Dehradun, Nainital, Mussoorie, and Pithoragarh hovered between 10°C and 12°C, with the day expected to warm up to 22–24°C in most areas.
The IMD reported partly hazy skies in some valleys during the morning, which will gradually clear by noon, leading to a bright and comfortable afternoon. The weather will remain dry across the state, with no significant rainfall expected.
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Tourist destinations such as Nainital and Mussoorie are likely to experience pleasant weather conditions, making it an ideal day for sightseeing. However, temperatures will dip sharply after sunset, and residents have been advised to keep warm clothing handy.
Overall Outlook
Meteorologists say that no major western disturbance is likely to impact north India in the next few days, meaning the current dry and hazy spell will continue until the weekend.
While the plains of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh will experience warm afternoons and hazy mornings, Uttarakhand will see cooler and more comfortable conditions. Air quality remains a concern for the region, and authorities have urged citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices to help reduce pollution as the winter season approaches.