New Delhi, India — January 7, 2026
Delhi-NCR is experiencing a dual impact of severe winter cold and rising air pollution on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a Cold Day warning for parts of the region.
Delhi-NCR Weather Update
The minimum temperature is expected to hover around 7°C, while the maximum temperature may reach only 15°C to 16°C, remaining well below seasonal averages. Due to limited sunshine, residents are likely to experience intense cold conditions throughout the day.
During early morning hours, moderate to dense fog was reported across several areas. In locations such as Palam and Safdarjung, visibility dropped to 100–250 meters, affecting road traffic and slowing commute times.
IMD has indicated that Cold Day conditions are likely to persist in certain parts of Delhi-NCR, increasing health risks for children, senior citizens, and people with respiratory conditions.
Pollution and AQI Status
Air quality across the national capital remains a serious concern. On Wednesday morning, Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded between 263 and 285, placing it in the ‘Poor’ to ‘Very Poor’ categories.
Fine particulate matter, especially PM2.5 and PM10, continues to remain at elevated levels, posing health risks. Pollution hotspots such as Anand Vihar and Wazirpur reported AQI readings above 300, classified as Very Poor.
AQI Categories and Health Impact
| Category | AQI Range | Health Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Poor | 201–300 | Breathing discomfort for sensitive groups |
| Very Poor | 301–400 | Respiratory illness with prolonged exposure |
Public Advisory
Authorities have advised residents to:
Drive cautiously due to fog-related low visibility
Avoid morning walks and outdoor exercise
Wear protective masks to reduce pollution exposure
Use adequate winter clothing to guard against cold-related illnesses
Residents are encouraged to monitor official IMD and air quality bulletins for further updates.
