Delhi-NCR feels winter chill after overnight rain, AQI improves to 'moderate'

Delhi's AQI which remained above 200 in the 'poor' category on Wednesday and Thursday, improved to 133 in the 'moderate' category

NEW DELHI: Delhi-NCR experienced a shift in its weather after overnight incessant rain lashed the city, bringing an unmistakable nip to the air and signalling the early onset of winter.Visuals from key locations, including Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station and the Jamia Millia Islamia area, showed rain-soaked roads and steady showers as dark clouds covered the city late on Thursday night.The rainfall also brought some relief from pollution. Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI), which remained above 200 in the 'poor' category on Wednesday and Thursday, improved to 133 in the 'moderate' category at 4am on Friday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) districts on October 29, forecasting rain and thunderstorms over the next 24 to 48 hours.Weather conditions are expected to improve thereafter, with clear skies likely in early November.According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi, widespread weather activity is expected across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon and Faridabad.

The forecast indicates generally cloudy skies, with one or two spells of light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in several areas. Isolated locations may receive heavy rainfall during the night.The wet spell is expected to continue on October 30, with very light to light rain at several places and moderate showers during the morning and forenoon hours.

By October 31, skies are likely to become partly cloudy, with no weather warnings in place. The IMD has forecast mainly clear skies and stable conditions across the region on November 1 and 2.