Delhi Faces Rain, Lightning, and Poor Air Quality Amid Winter Weather Woes

Delhi’s Air Quality :- Delhi’s residents woke up to a cold, wet morning on Friday, December 27, as early rainfall and thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning, compounded the already chilly conditions in the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed this unsettled weather to an active western disturbance, which is expected to continue bringing rain, thunderstorms, and even hail to large parts of northwestern and central India through the weekend.

Traffic Disruptions and Safety Concerns

The combination of rain and low visibility is expected to lead to challenging driving conditions across Delhi. Traffic congestion is likely, with slippery roads and longer travel times. The IMD has urged commuters to exercise caution, particularly when driving, while also issuing important safety advisories. ” The department issued a strong safety warning, advising people to steer clear of exposed electric wires and keep a safe distance from electric poles. It also emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with any conductive objects during the storm to prevent the risk of electrical shocks..

Despite the troublesome conditions, some locals seem to be making the best of it. Deepak Pandey, a Delhi resident, remarked, “The weather has become so pleasant, it feels like Kashmir. It’s cold, but the rain has cleared up the air, making it more bearable.” However, despite the improvement in weather conditions, the city’s air quality continues to remain dangerously high, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 372, still classified as ‘very poor.’ The rain did not bring much relief to the pollution levels, though slight improvements are expected over the coming days.

Air Traffic Impact and Travel Advice

Given the weather’s potential to reduce visibility, Delhi’s major airlines have issued travel advisories to help passengers navigate possible disruptions. IndiGo advised travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport, acknowledging the likelihood of intermittent rain and low clouds throughout the day. “Please plan your journey accordingly, and stay updated on any schedule changes,” the airline posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Delhi’s Air Quality– Air India also highlighted the possibility of delays due to the weather and urged passengers to allow extra time for travel to the airport. “Flights may be affected due to rain and slow traffic. We recommend arriving early and checking your flight status before departure,” the airline said.

Low Visibility Procedures at Delhi Airport

Delhi’s Air Quality – The Delhi Airport has implemented low visibility procedures in response to the reduced visibility caused by fog and rain. However, officials confirmed that all flights were operating on time. In a statement issued Thursday, the airport assured passengers that all flights were proceeding as scheduled despite the challenging weather conditions.

Passengers were encouraged to stay informed about their flight status through updates from their respective airlines. Authorities also advised travelers to prepare for potential slowdowns, especially in the arrival areas due to the ongoing rain.

Airlines’ Preparations for Low Visibility Landings in misty Air Quality  

Delhi’s Air Quality – Both IndiGo and Air India have taken proactive measures to minimize disruptions during the winter weather. IndiGo has trained 80% of its pilots to operate under CAT III conditions, allowing landings even with near-zero visibility. The airline has equipped its Airbus fleet with CAT III systems, enabling precise landings in conditions as challenging as 75 meters of visibility. To further safeguard flight operations, IndiGo has increased fuel reserves and stationed extra crew near airports for rapid deployment when needed.

Air India, on the other hand, has also prioritized long-haul and metro-to-metro flights to limit disruptions. The airline has added more CAT III-certified pilots and introduced a “Fog Care” initiative, offering free rescheduling or refunds for passengers whose flights are affected by weather conditions.

Outlook for the Weekend

Delhi’s Air Quality – As the weekend approaches, the IMD forecasts continued thunderstorms and moderate rainfall over Delhi and surrounding areas. The weather is expected to persist through Saturday, with more rainfall possible throughout the day. The cold wave gripping the city will likely continue, with temperatures remaining below normal for this time of year. Though some may enjoy the cool and refreshing atmosphere reminiscent of a hill station, the ongoing poor air quality remains a significant concern for residents.

Delhi is bracing for a challenging weekend with adverse weather conditions, including rain, thunderstorms, and continued pollution. Travelers are advised to stay informed, plan their journeys ahead, and take extra precautions on the roads and in airports.

 

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