Delhi woke up to a hazy morning on Thursday, November 2, 2023, as a dense layer of smog covered the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at a concerning 278, placing it firmly in the ‘poor’ category. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, the situation is expected to worsen, with pollution levels likely to slip into the ‘very poor’ category between November 6 and 8.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the national capital’s AQI stood at 278 this morning. **Experts warn that air quality may deteriorate further by evening due to low wind speeds and greater pollutant accumulation**.
The Early Warning System forecast indicates that wind speed may gradually increase up to 15 kmph from the northwest during the afternoon, but is expected to drop below 10 kmph by evening and night. The sky is anticipated to remain mainly clear, though mist and haze are likely to persist throughout the day.
According to CPCB classifications, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered “good,” 51 to 100 “satisfactory,” 101 to 200 “moderate,” 201 to 300 “poor,” 301 to 400 “very poor,” and 401 to 500 “severe.” With the AQI currently at 278, Delhi residents need to take precautionary measures.
The minimum temperature in Delhi settled at 12.7 degrees Celsius—2.6 degrees below the seasonal average—while humidity stood at 75 percent at 8:30 am. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, with the weather department forecasting mist and haze throughout the day.
**Residents have been strongly advised to limit outdoor activities**, particularly during early morning and late evening hours, as pollution levels remain troubling across the city. Health officials advise vulnerable groups—including children and the elderly—to stay indoors when conditions worsen.
This persistent air quality challenge underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat pollution in the capital. As pollution particles linger in the atmosphere, authorities will continue to monitor and provide updates, guiding citizens on necessary health precautions. **As Delhi continues to battle air quality issues, community awareness and proactive measures are essential to safeguard public health.**
