Delhi air quality improves to moderate as rain clears pollution after severe storms

Delhi's air quality improved significantly to the moderate category on Monday morning after severe storms and widespread rain swept through the region, clearing pollution.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 166 at 7 am on June 2, down from 208 the previous day. This improvement followed a series of intense weather events including heavy rainfall and strong winds.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the rain spell to a combination of weather systems: a Western Disturbance with cyclonic circulation over northern Pakistan, another cyclonic circulation over Haryana, and continuous moisture inflow from the Arabian Sea.

Severe weather disrupted air and ground transport, with at least 14 flights diverted and over 350 delayed at Delhi airport between 4:30 pm and 6:10 pm Sunday.

Wind speeds peaked at 96 km/hr at Palam and 81 km/hr at Pragati Maidan, intensifying the storm's impact.

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Monday and Tuesday, forecasting continued chances of light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds possibly reaching 60 km/hr.

May saw Delhi experience 10 rainy days including at least five major storms, contributing to the recent improvement in air quality.

These weather patterns have temporarily alleviated Delhi's persistent pollution problem, though authorities remain vigilant as similar conditions are expected to continue.

Delhi's air quality improved to 'moderate' Monday morning after severe storms and widespread rain cleared pollution. The Air Quality Index dropped from 208 to 166. The India Meteorological Department issued a yellow alert forecasting more rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds up to 60 km/hr in the coming days.