Can Heavy Rainfall Provide Relief to Delhi-NCR and Improve AQI?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rainfall in Delhi-NCR has provided significant relief from heat.
- Air quality has improved considerably, with many areas now in the 'satisfactory' category.
- The pleasant weather is expected to continue for the week.
- Temperatures will range between 30°C and 34°C.
- Although pollution levels have dropped, some areas still experience 'moderate' AQI levels.
New Delhi, July 29 (NationPress) A substantial downpour on Tuesday delivered much-needed relief from the ongoing heatwave affecting Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The intermittent rains and cloudy skies have not only resulted in a drop in elevated temperatures but have also significantly enhanced air quality.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has seen improvements in various areas of Delhi and NCR, granting residents access to cleaner and fresher air.
As reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this pleasant weather is projected to persist for the upcoming week.
From July 29 to August 3, the skies are expected to remain predominantly cloudy, with a strong possibility of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in several locations.
The IMD's forecast suggests “moderate rain” on July 29 and 30, followed by “thunderstorms accompanied by rain” from July 31 to August 1. Light to moderate rain and thundershowers are anticipated to continue through August 2 and 3. The maximum temperatures during this period are likely to range between 30 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures are expected to hover between 24 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius.
This weather pattern has also led to a notable decline in pollution levels.
According to the data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and various State Pollution Control Boards, AQI levels in many areas of Delhi have improved to the ‘satisfactory’ category.
On Tuesday, numerous areas reported significant enhancements in air quality, such as Alipur (84), Ashok Vihar (88), ITO (99), Narela (88), IGI Airport (82), and Chandni Chowk (69).
However, AQI levels in certain parts of the city, including Jahangirpuri (156), Mundka (135), and Dwarka Sector-8 (105), still remain in the 'moderate' range. Neighboring regions have also benefited from the seasonal rains, with Noida's Sector-125 recording an AQI of 97, Sector-62 at 61, and Greater Noida's Knowledge Park-III achieving an impressive 57.
In Ghaziabad, the AQI at Indirapuram was recorded at (63), Sanjay Nagar (93), and Vasundhara (83), all showing marked improvement.
This refreshing bout of rain and cool breezes has not only alleviated the heat and humidity but has also provided a temporary reprieve from the ongoing struggle against air pollution.