IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Delhi, Dense Fog Causes Flight and Train Delays

Delhi experienced a slight change in temperatures this morning, with the temperature recorded at 10.4 degrees Celsius at 5:30 a.m., according to the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) for Delhi. However, temperatures may dip further due to a potential rain spell.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert as dense fog is expected in some areas, while moderate fog and smog will reduce visibility during the morning and evening hours, reported Business Standard. A thin layer of fog was observed in the national capital at 8.17 a.m., reported ANI.

The AQEWS forecast smog and moderate fog in the morning. There is also a possibility of very light to light rain with thunderstorm in the evening and night on January 22. The minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be around 22 degrees Celsius and 11 degrees Celsius, respectively, with the cold wave expected to continue on January 22, according to IMD.

Earlier this week, Delhi witnessed a sudden rise in temperature on January 19, with bright sunshine escalating the maximum temperature to an unprecedented 26.1 degrees Celsius, the highest recorded in January over the past six years.  

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the 'poor' category, recorded at 262 at 8 a.m. on January 22, according to AQWES. The AQI showed no signs of improvement, as it was recorded at 289 (‘very poor’) at 4 p.m. on January 21.

Read More: Delhi Records Warmest January at 26.1 Degrees Celsius, 'Very Poor' Air Quality Persists

Fog Delays Flights and Trains

Several flights at the Indira Gandhi International Airport have been delayed due to dense fog affecting visibility.

The Delhi airport is operating under reduced visibility, impacting early morning air travel.

At least 9 trains originating from various stations in Delhi have been delayed late due to dense fog.

Fog conditions had disrupted train services in Delhi earlier this week on January 20 with 19 trains running late, reported ANI.