- Delhi's AQI climbed to 165 on October 17.
- Forecasts predict "Poor" air quality from October 19.
- Winter conditions, no rain, hinder pollutant dispersion.
Delhi AQI Today: Delhi’s air quality has taken a sharp turn for the worse as winter approaches, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing to 165 at 3:21 PM on October 17, according to data from AQI.in.
The surge follows a brief spell of cleaner air earlier in the 24 hours. The trend remains a serious concern for the national capital, where changing weather conditions make it increasingly difficult for atmospheric pollutants to disperse.
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How Delhi's Air Quality Changed Over 24 Hours
An analysis of AQI.in's hourly data from 3:31 PM on October 16 to 3:21 PM on October 17 shows how pollution levels rose across the city:
- 3:31 PM (October 16): AQI recorded at 102 in the Moderate category.
- 6:31 PM: Pollution levels rapidly increased through the evening, crossing 150.
- 11:31 PM: Pollution levels peaked overnight at 198.
- 3:21 PM (October 17): Pollution levels remained elevated the following afternoon at 165.
While the labels may differ between platforms, the data shows the same thing: a decline in air quality.
Will Delhi's Air Quality Deteriorate Further?
Yes, official forecasts suggest Delhi’s pollution levels could climb further due to the following factors:
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- No Rain Expected: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast mostly clear skies until October 23, with daytime temperatures expected to remain around 31-33 degrees Celsius before rising slightly. Without rain, there is no natural process to wash dust and particles out of the air.
- IITM Outlook: The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) has forecast that Delhi's air quality would enter the "Poor" category on October 19 and remain there throughout its six-day outlook, India Today reported.
- Winter Meteorological Factors: Lower wind speeds, changing wind directions, and dropping temperatures will prevent atmospheric pollutants from dispersing effectively.
With winter approaching, these latest readings show how quickly a temporary spell of cleaner air can pass and the need for early preparation.