A western disturbance over central Pakistan and its surrounding areas is expected to bring light to isolated rainfall in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi-NCR over the next two days, starting Sunday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
In its latest forecast on Sunday, the IMD also predicted a cold wave across most of Northern India beginning December 9.
Speaking to ANI about the weather conditions in North India and Delhi-NCR, IMD scientist Naresh Kumar stated that temperatures in Delhi-NCR will drop after December 9.
“A western disturbance persists over central Pakistan and its surrounding areas. Light to moderate rain is expected in the Himalayas today and tomorrow. Light rain is also expected in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi,” Kumar said.
“Temperatures may rise slightly in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi-NCR on December 8 and 9. However, after December 9, temperatures will decrease, and cold wave conditions may develop. The cold wave will initially affect Rajasthan, followed by Punjab and Haryana,” he added.
According to an IMD release, cold wave conditions are anticipated in West Rajasthan from December 9 to December 14, while Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, and West Uttar Pradesh are likely to experience cold wave conditions starting December 11. The IMD defines cold wave conditions as a significant drop in temperature compared to the normal climatological values for a given location.
Meanwhile, Delhi residents sought refuge in night shelters set up by the Delhi government amid the inclement weather on Saturday night. Shelters have been established at various locations in the national capital, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and Nizamuddin Flyover.
Delhi’s air quality also worsened, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) falling to the ‘very poor’ category on Sunday. The AQI was recorded at 302 at 4 pm.
Earlier on Thursday, the Supreme Court permitted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP Stage IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR, downgrading them to GRAP Stage II due to improved air quality. However, GRAP Stages II and I will continue to remain in effect across the region.
