Delhi woke up to a gusty morning on Wednesday as strong winds swept through the city, bringing a noticeable dip in temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported surface wind speeds of 20 to 30 kmph across Delhi-NCR, affecting areas such as Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, and Faridabad. The maximum and minimum temperatures in the capital were expected to settle around 26 and 13 degrees Celsius, respectively, with the weather feeling significantly cooler than the previous day.
The impact of the changing weather was not limited to the plains. The IMD issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir, warning of potential disruptions in the hilly regions. The recent snowfall in the mountains sent chilly winds towards Delhi, adding to the winter-like conditions. Light fog and mist were observed in the morning, with northwesterly winds picking up speed by the afternoon, further influencing the temperature drop.
While the cold winds provided temporary relief from the rising heat, the IMD has predicted that March will be hotter than usual across India. Meteorologists have indicated that maximum temperatures will likely be above normal in most parts of the country, signaling an early onset of summer. However, for now, the people of Delhi seem to be enjoying the brief respite from the warmth, even as they brace for the seasonal shift ahead.
Despite the changing weather, the air quality in the capital remained in the ‘moderate’ category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 148, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Though still a concern, the cooler winds may have helped in dispersing pollutants, providing some relief to residents. As Delhians experience this brief period of cool, breezy weather, those traveling to the hills have been advised to take precautions due to the heavy snowfall forecasted in the northern states.
