Delhi has cleanest air in 6 years. But heavy rains are coming, forecasts IMD in weather update

On Thursday, Delhi achieved its cleanest Air Quality Index (AQI) between January 1 and August 8 for the years 2018 to 2024, as reported by the Centre’s air quality panel, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The AQI was recorded at 53, placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). However, India Meteorological Department has forecast rains for the next seven days, including possibility of heavy rainfall towards August 13-14.

The AQI scale ranges as follows: 0-50 (Good), 51-100 (Satisfactory), 101-200 (Moderate), 201-300 (Poor), 301-400 (Very Poor), and 401-500 (Severe). With a reading of 53, Delhi’s air quality was deemed satisfactory, reflecting an improvement in environmental conditions.

Thursday’s weather featured light rain across various parts of the city, with the maximum temperature reaching 34.1°C, which is typical for this time of year. The minimum temperature dropped to 25.4°C, 1.5°C below the seasonal average, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The rain and subsequent waterlogging affected traffic in several areas, and there were reports of tree uprootings. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) received 18 complaints about waterlogging and 16 regarding fallen trees.

Looking ahead, the IMD’s weather forecast indicates generally cloudy skies with light rain for Friday. Temperatures are expected to range from a minimum of 26°C to a maximum of 34°C. The outlook for the next seven days includes:

Delhi 7-day weather forecast from IMD

• August 9: Generally cloudy with light rain, 26°C-34°C
• August 10: Generally cloudy with moderate rain, 26°C-34°C
• August 11: Generally cloudy with moderate rain, 25°C-33°C
• August 12: Generally cloudy with light rain, 25°C-33°C
• August 13: Rain or thundershowers, 26°C-34°C
• August 14: Rain or thundershowers, 27°C-34°C