Winter conditions in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are expected to worsen, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting cold wave conditions in the upcoming days. The IMD forecasts cold wave conditions in isolated areas of Delhi from January 2 to 5, with temperatures dropping significantly. Dense fog is also expected to persist in Delhi during the night and early morning hours until January 6.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi improved slightly, standing at 386 on Friday, as per pollution control authorities. However, dense fog and smog led to reduced visibility in various parts of the city, causing disruptions in daily life and prompting airlines to issue advisories. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ category at 380, with some areas recording ‘severe’ air quality levels.
Neighboring cities like Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad also witnessed improved air quality, though still in the ‘poor’ range. Air India and IndiGo issued warnings about possible flight disruptions due to dense fog and reduced visibility. Operations at the IGI Airport remained normal, with CAT I operations in progress and visibility at 1,300 meters.
Delhi experienced its coldest December day since 2019 on December 31, 2025, with the maximum temperature dropping to 14.2 degrees Celsius, significantly below normal levels.
