Tue Nov 19 08:13:34 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes Under Severe Air Pollution and Approaching Cold Snap
**NEW DELHI** – Delhi is bracing for a double whammy: a significant temperature drop and a worsening air quality crisis. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a 3-degree Celsius temperature dip accompanied by dense fog as a western disturbance, which brought snowfall to Jammu and Kashmir, moves towards the national capital. The shift in wind direction is expected to bring in moist air, further exacerbating the situation.
The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a severe 429 on Sunday morning, marking the fifth consecutive day in the “severe” category. Many areas recorded AQIs exceeding 450, shrouding the city in a thick layer of smog. This severe pollution has led to a surge in respiratory problems, with residents reporting breathing difficulties, eye irritation, headaches, and other ailments.
Doctors are urging residents to minimize outdoor activities, wear masks when outside, stay hydrated, and take precautions to protect their eyes and respiratory systems. They also recommend using air purifiers indoors and avoiding activities that increase indoor pollution. Special care is advised for the elderly and children. The situation highlights the urgent need for effective measures to combat Delhi’s persistent air pollution problem.
First Piper 