Delhi Chokes: 5th Consecutive Day of 'Very Poor' Air Quality, Bitter Cold Snap Ahead

Delhi residents are facing another day of hazardous air quality, with a thick layer of smog shrouding the city for the fifth consecutive day. The minimum temperature on Tuesday was a chilly 9.6°C, three degrees below normal, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The Air Quality Index (AQI) at 8am was marginally lower than Monday's 4pm reading, but still a concerning 344. The improvement is attributed to a slight increase in wind speed and a reduction in stubble burning, which contributed to 12.8% of Delhi's PM 2.5 levels on Sunday. However, experts warn that the air quality is expected to remain 'very poor' until at least Thursday. A 'cold wave' is unlikely, but temperatures are expected to oscillate between 9-11°C until Thursday due to a winter chill. A return of easterly winds may bring a slight reprieve on November 21. Private forecaster Skymet Weather attributes the dip in temperature to northwesterly winds and clear skies, leading to radiational cooling. While a cold wave is unlikely, temperatures may continue to drop in the coming days. The Delhi government has been enforcing Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan since November 11 to combat pollution. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the hazardous air quality.