Delhi Fog and Cold Wave Intensify, Grounding Flights and Pushing AQI to Severe Levels

Residents of Delhi woke to another harsh morning on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for a cold wave and dense fog. The national capital recorded its coldest day of the month, with flights severely disrupted.

The IMD’s alert warns of a significant temperature drop. Conditions are being driven by a subtropical westerly jet stream over North India. According to Reuters, the city’s maximum temperature plummeted 5.3 degrees below normal.

Flight Operations Grind to a Halt Amid Low Visibility

The dense fog caused major travel chaos. Over 60 flights were cancelled at Delhi’s main airport on Saturday. Visibility dropped dramatically, making it unsafe for planes to take off or land.

Major airlines issued urgent advisories to passengers. Air India warned of network-wide disruptions due to the fog. IndiGo and SpiceJet also alerted flyers about potential delays and cancellations across North India.

Air Quality Crisis Compounds Public Health Threat

The dangerous weather coincides with a severe air pollution event. Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 387, in the ‘very poor’ category. Many monitoring stations reported AQI levels above 400, which is classified as ‘severe’.

This combination poses a serious dual health risk. The toxic smog can exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular issues. The intense cold further threatens vulnerable populations like the elderly.

The ongoing Delhi fog and cold wave event highlights the city’s severe winter challenges. Authorities continue to advise caution as conditions are expected to persist.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

How many flights were cancelled due to the fog?

On Saturday, 66 arrival and departure flights were cancelled at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. More disruptions were expected on Sunday due to continuing poor visibility.

What is Delhi’s current AQI level?

On Sunday morning, Delhi’s average AQI was 387, in the ‘very poor’ range. Many areas recorded levels above 400, which is considered ‘severe’ and hazardous to health.

What did the IMD’s orange alert predict?

The IMD predicted dense to very dense fog and cold day conditions. Maximum temperatures were forecast to be markedly below normal by around 5 degrees Celsius.

Which airlines issued travel advisories?

Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet all issued advisories. They warned passengers of likely disruptions to flights in and out of Delhi and other northern cities.

Why is this cold wave happening?

The IMD cited the presence of a subtropical westerly jet stream over North India. This weather pattern is driving the intense cold and foggy conditions across the region.