New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) The Delhi-NCR region continues to experience severe fog and cold wave conditions on Tuesday, with air quality remaining in the ‘poor’ category for the second day in a row. Several airlines, along with the Delhi Airport, have issued advisories cautioning passengers about potential delays due to low visibility.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) Sameer app reveals that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital was at 286 on Tuesday, which is a slight decline from the 244 recorded on Monday.

Despite the worsening conditions, the Air Quality Early Warning System anticipates a brief shift to the ‘moderate’ category later on. However, predictions indicate that air quality will likely revert to ‘poor’ on January 7 and 8, remaining within the ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ range for the subsequent six days.

The weather has been particularly harsh, with fog covering extensive areas of the city during the early morning hours, affecting both road and air transport. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a gradual decline in minimum temperatures across northwest India by 2-3 degrees Celsius over the next four days, while similar reductions are expected in central and eastern regions within the next two days.

The minimum temperature on Tuesday is projected to be around 7 degrees Celsius, while the maximum is expected to reach approximately 19 degrees Celsius.

On Monday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 18.5 degrees Celsius, which is about 0.8 degrees below normal, while the minimum temperature was noted at 6.6 degrees Celsius, slightly below the seasonal average. Station-wise readings showed Safdarjung at a maximum of 18 degrees Celsius, Palam at 15.3 degrees, Lodhi Road at 17.8 degrees, Ridge at 17.7 degrees, and Ayanagar at 17 degrees Celsius.

In light of the challenging weather conditions, Delhi Airport issued a morning advisory for passengers, urging them to stay informed about flight operations.

In a message posted on X, the airport stated: “Flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, leading to delays. Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. Our on-ground staff are ready to assist across all terminals.”

Numerous airlines also alerted passengers regarding potential disruptions.

IndiGo, in a post on X, remarked: “Low visibility and fog over Delhi, Amritsar, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Varanasi, Ranchi, and Hindon (Airport) may affect flight schedules. We are closely monitoring the weather and are committed to ensuring your safe and smooth travel.”

“We advise you to stay updated on your flight status via our website or app. Our teams are here to support you at every step, and we anticipate clearer skies soon to restore our regular schedule. Thank you for your understanding and patience,” it added.

Authorities have recommended that residents, particularly the elderly and those with respiratory issues, limit extended outdoor exposure as cold and pollution levels remain high.