New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) The climate in Delhi-NCR has seen a significant transformation this week, with both daytime and nighttime temperatures dropping sharply. Residents are starting to experience a chill in the air, heralding the slow onset of winter.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the minimum nighttime temperature could dip to approximately 14 degrees Celsius in the upcoming days, while maximum temperatures are projected to stay around 27 degrees. The temperature outlook from November 5 to 10 predicts a continuous decrease in both maximum and minimum temperatures.

The week commenced with a minimum temperature of 16 degrees and a maximum of 29 degrees. However, by November 9 and 10, the minimum temperature is anticipated to reach 14 degrees Celsius. While mild sunshine is expected during the day, mornings and evenings will feel distinctly colder.

Since Sunday evening, wind speeds have increased across the NCR region -- including Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Delhi -- resulting in a noticeable enhancement in air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI), which remained in the 'very poor' range for three consecutive days, has now improved to the 'orange zone' or 'poor' category.

Meteorologists speculate that if wind speeds remain steady in the coming days, pollution levels could decline even further, providing residents with relief from smog and haze. Nonetheless, the IMD has warned that stronger winds will contribute to colder nights. Early morning commuters are advised to dress warmly, as temperatures are expected to fall further after next week.

IMD scientists noted that the effects of the cold are being felt more acutely due to the sharper drop in minimum temperatures compared to daytime highs.

The IMD has also indicated that northwest India, including Delhi-NCR, is not likely to face an extraordinarily harsh winter this month. Weather patterns are expected to remain largely normal, mirroring those of recent years.

This clarification comes in light of widespread reports suggesting that the region might experience an exceptionally cold November due to the potential emergence of La Nina conditions, which are often linked to colder winters in northern India.

Daytime temperatures are predicted to remain normal to slightly below normal, while minimum temperatures could stay above normal in most areas of the country, except for certain parts of northwest India, including Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, where colder nights are expected.