Delhi is likely to see a gradual easing of daytime heat and humidity this week, with light rain forecast between Tuesday and October 12 as north-westerly winds strengthen after the monsoon’s withdrawal, according to the weather department’s forecast cited in a report by Jagran – New Delhi.
The change in wind direction has already reduced the sticky conditions experienced across the capital, particularly during the morning and evening. The maximum temperature was around 36 degrees Celsius on Monday, but the forecast indicates that daytime temperatures will begin to decline over the coming week.
Two western disturbances are expected to become active between Tuesday and October 12. Their influence could increase light rainfall activity across north India, including Delhi and the National Capital Region. The forecast also indicates cloudy conditions and the possibility of light rain on Tuesday.
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 23.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, which was 1.5 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature reached 36.6 degrees Celsius, or 2.4 degrees above normal. Relative humidity ranged from 43% to 90% during the day.
The medium-range forecast indicates that temperatures could ease further by the middle of October. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach about 31 to 32 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may settle between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius. The weather is not expected to turn cold immediately, but the reduction in daytime heat is likely to become more noticeable.
The expected rain and increase in wind speed could also temporarily affect Delhi’s air quality by reducing the accumulation of pollutants. The city’s air quality index was 184 on Monday, placing it in the moderate category. However, the effect of rainfall on air quality will depend on local wind conditions and the sources of pollution, according to the report.
Mahesh Palawat, vice-president for meteorology and climate change at Skymet Weather, said the reduction in humidity was a natural result of the monsoon’s withdrawal and the shift towards north-westerly winds. He added that the arrival of winter could be delayed this year because of the influence of El Niño, although changes in weather conditions should become evident during October.
For residents, the immediate change is expected to be a softer daytime heat profile, lower morning and evening humidity, and the possibility of light rain across Delhi and the NCR. The next key forecast window runs from Tuesday through October 12, when the western disturbances are expected to influence local weather conditions.
