Delhi-NCR Engulfed in Dense Fog, Zero Visibility Disrupts Traffic and Flights

KKN Gurugram Desk | A thick blanket of fog engulfed Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Saturday morning, causing near-zero visibility on roads and impacting daily life. The extreme foggy conditions disrupted traffic movement, while flights and train operations faced delays due to poor visibility.

Visuals from major locations such as DND Flyway, Barapullah Flyover, India Gate, and the Delhi-Jaipur Highway showcased how dense fog covered the city, making travel hazardous. As the foggy spell continues, authorities have urged commuters to exercise caution while traveling.

Delhi Weather Today: Temperature and AQI Levels

Minimum and Maximum Temperatures

📌 Minimum Temperature: 10°C (expected to settle by the day)
📌 Maximum Temperature: 26°C

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted dense fog for Delhi and its surrounding regions throughout the day. The city recorded a temperature of 11.2°C at 7 AM, indicating a relatively warmer winter morning compared to previous years.

Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi

🚨 AQI at 7 AM: 353 (Very Poor Category)
🔴 AQI Forecast: Likely to remain very poor until February 3, with minor improvements expected thereafter.

As per the Sameer App, the air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR remain alarming, with AQI fluctuating between 300-400, categorizing it as ‘very poor’. Prolonged exposure to this air can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and breathing difficulties, especially for sensitive groups like children and elderly individuals.

Flight and Train Delays at Indira Gandhi International Airport

As the foggy conditions worsened, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) issued an advisory for passengers regarding flight disruptions.

✈️ Delhi Airport Advisory:
“While landings and take-offs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may face delays. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for updated flight schedules. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.”

💡 What is CAT III Compliance?
CAT III (Category III) refers to an advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) that enables aircraft to land safely in low-visibility conditions. Flights that do not meet CAT III standards may be delayed or canceled due to operational restrictions.

🚆 Impact on Train Operations
Several trains arriving in and departing from Delhi were delayed, causing inconvenience to passengers. Northern Railways has advised commuters to check real-time train schedules before heading to the station.

Why is Delhi Experiencing Heavy Fog?

According to IMD experts, the current dense fog over Delhi-NCR is a result of high humidity levels, cold air, and low wind speed. These factors create favorable conditions for the formation of fog, significantly reducing visibility.

🌨 Weather Expert Mahesh Palawat explained that the absence of strong western disturbances this winter has led to warmer-than-usual January temperatures, affecting fog formation.

“Had there been one or two strong western disturbances, we would have seen colder conditions with icy winds and cloudiness. Instead, temperatures rose quickly, reducing the chances of extreme cold spells,” he added.

Delhi Experiences Warmest January Since 2019

Interestingly, Delhi recorded its warmest January in the past six years.

📌 January 31 Maximum Temperature: 27°C
📌 January Average High Temperature: 21.1°C (Above normal average of 20.1°C)

This unusual warmth has been attributed to weak western disturbances and lack of strong cold waves. Nighttime temperatures have also been higher than usual, indicating a shift in winter patterns.

Delhi’s AQI Remains in ‘Very Poor’ Category

💨 Air Pollution Update
🔴 Current AQI Status: ‘Very Poor’ (301-400 range)
⚠️ Forecast Until February 3: Expected to remain in ‘very poor’ category, with gradual improvement thereafter.

AQI Categories Explained

✔️ 0-50: Good ✅
✔️ 51-100: Satisfactory ✅
✔️ 101-200: Moderate ⚠️
✔️ 201-300: Poor ❌
✔️ 301-400: Very Poor 🚨
✔️ 401-500: Severe ⚠️

The Centre’s Early Warning System for Delhi has stated that air quality may improve slightly after February 3, but the city is likely to experience fluctuating pollution levels due to weather conditions and local emissions.

Experts recommend wearing masks, avoiding outdoor activities, and using air purifiers to minimize health risks associated with air pollution.

Traffic Advisory: Safety Measures for Foggy Weather

🚗 Commuters are advised to follow these safety tips to prevent accidents during foggy conditions:

✔️ Use Fog Lights & Low Beams: Avoid using high beams as they reflect back in fog.
✔️ Maintain Safe Distance: Sudden braking can cause collisions. Keep extra distance between vehicles.
✔️ Drive at Moderate Speed: Reduce speed and avoid overtaking.
✔️ Check Flight & Train Status: Travel plans may be disrupted due to low visibility.
✔️ Wear Masks: With air quality worsening, masks can help reduce exposure to pollutants.

Delhi-NCR is facing severe winter fog, which has disrupted travel, reduced visibility, and worsened air quality. With dense fog expected to persist, authorities are advising people to stay updated on traffic and transport advisories.

As air pollution levels remain in the ‘very poor’ category, experts emphasize the need for long-term pollution control strategies and public awareness on sustainable practices.

📢 Stay tuned with KKNLive.com for real-time weather updates, AQI forecasts, and Delhi-NCR traffic news! 🚀