New Delhi, Jan 9: The mercury in Delhi dropped to 5 degrees Celsius on Friday, as the national capital continued to experience cold weather conditions, with rain lashing several parts of the city. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), light rainfall is expected to continue in isolated locations throughout the day.

In addition to the cold, a thick layer of smog enveloped several areas, severely impacting air quality. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 280, which falls under the 'poor' category.

Several areas recorded alarming AQI levels, with Anand Vihar witnessing the highest at 385, placing it in the 'very poor' category. Other areas with high AQI readings included Chandni Chowk (335), Jahangirpuri (340), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (354), and ITO (307). Areas like Ferozeshah Road (307), Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range (360), Dwarka Sector 8 (346), Ashok Vihar (328), and Nehru Nagar (392) also reported similarly high pollution levels.

While the overall air quality remained poor across Delhi, some areas recorded slightly better AQI levels. IGI Airport Terminal 3 reported an AQI of 252, still in the 'poor' range, while other areas such as Alipur (280), Aya Nagar (299), Bawana (276), and Burari Crossing (278) also fell under the 'poor' category.

As per CPCB’s AQI classification, a reading between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'.

The IMD also predicted light intermittent rainfall or drizzle at several locations in Delhi, including Preet Vihar, ITO, India Gate, Akshardham, Safdarjung, Lodi Road, and Vasant Kunj, as well as isolated spots like Mundaka, Paschim Vihar, Rajouri Garden, and the President’s House.

The persistent rain and deteriorating air quality have left residents grappling with the cold and pollution, further intensifying concerns over public health and safety.