The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for dense fog and cold wave conditions across Delhi-NCR, warning that weather is expected to deteriorate further on Sunday and Monday. The national capital recorded its coldest morning of the current winter season on Saturday, with the minimum temperature at Safdarjung dropping to 4.2 degrees Celsius—the lowest January reading in the past three years. Daytime temperatures also remained subdued, with the maximum settling at 19.7 degrees Celsius, well below normal levels.

Multiple weather stations across the city reported sharp declines in minimum temperatures, including 4.5 degrees Celsius at Palam and Ayanagar, 4.7 degrees Celsius at Lodi Road, and 5.3 degrees Celsius in the Ridge area. According to IMD criteria, cold wave conditions are declared when minimum temperatures fall 4.5 to 6.4 degrees Celsius below normal, depending on local climatology. Moderate to dense fog is forecast during morning hours, significantly reducing visibility and intensifying the biting cold across the region.

Unfavourable meteorological conditions, including cold and calm winds, have severely restricted the dispersion of pollutants, leading to a rapid deterioration in air quality. Delhi's overall Air Quality Index stood at 259 in the “poor” category at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, with Chandni Chowk registering a hazardous reading of 395—teetering on the edge of the “severe” category. Health experts have cautioned residents, particularly vulnerable groups, about the combined risks posed by prolonged cold exposure and elevated pollution levels.

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Of the city's air quality monitoring stations, 27 reported “very poor” conditions while 11 remained in the “poor” category, reflecting widespread accumulation of pollutants. The persistent cold spell has trapped emissions closer to the ground, exacerbating respiratory and cardiovascular concerns among the population. Authorities have advised limiting outdoor activities during peak fog hours and following pollution management guidelines.

The double impact of extreme cold and deteriorating air quality is expected to continue over the next two days, with no immediate relief in sight. Residents are urged to stay indoors during early mornings, use protective measures against the cold, and monitor official updates on both weather and air quality conditions. The IMD has indicated that such severe weather patterns may persist until meteorological changes allow for better dispersion and gradual warming.

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