New Delhi is set to experience a bright and calm Monday, January 19, 2026, with comfortable winter sunshine and mild afternoon temperatures, yet residents are urged to exercise caution due to persistent severe air pollution. Yesterday’s air quality registered as “Severe” on the India scale and “extremely unhealthy air” on the US scale, with high levels of PM2.5 and PM10, indicating that today’s clear skies should be viewed as “good-looking” weather rather than automatically “clean-air” weather. This situation necessitates precautions such as mask usage near traffic and considering indoor activities, while the week ahead offers a potential “breathing window” for air quality improvement with expected rain on Friday.
Today’s Weather Overview
The day in New Delhi begins with a classic winter-sun feel, which many in the capital may welcome. The forecast indicates sunny conditions will persist throughout the day, leading to a comfortable afternoon. A slightly cool start and finish are also expected, providing suitable conditions for errands, school runs, and outdoor work.Today’s temperatures in New Delhi are forecast to range from 14.3°C in the morning and late night. By afternoon, temperatures are expected to reach 25.3°C. The average temperature for the day is projected to be around 19.2°C.Humidity levels are anticipated to remain relatively low, at approximately 40 percent. This low humidity should contribute to the day feeling dry and comfortable, rather than clammy. Winds are expected to remain light, peaking near 7.6 kilometers per hour. Such light winds mean there will not be much of a dispersing breeze, which is generally good for a relaxed winter afternoon. However, this condition is not always ideal when air quality is already under stress.Rain is not expected to be a factor in today’s weather. The forecast shows 0 millimeters of precipitation and a 0 percent chance of rain. With sunny conditions anticipated, visibility is projected to be strong, at around 10 kilometers. This strong visibility should benefit commuters, particularly through the late morning and early afternoon hours.The day’s rhythm is expected to follow a typical January pattern. A cooler start is anticipated after sunrise, which occurs at 7:15 AM. Temperatures will then warm steadily, transitioning into a pleasant, sunlit afternoon. Following sunset at 5:49 PM, there will be a quick dip in comfort as temperatures begin to fall. For those scheduling outdoor time, the late morning to mid-afternoon period should feel the most comfortable. Evenings may turn slightly nippy for individuals staying out for extended periods.
Air Quality Concerns
Yesterday’s air quality in New Delhi was described as “frankly alarming.”The AQI (India) was 559, which falls in the “Severe” category.On the US scale, it read 616, also indicating extremely unhealthy air. The primary pollutants identified were PM2.5 at 380 and PM10 at 509. These levels of particulate matter typically irritate eyes and throat, and can trigger coughing. They are also known to significantly worsen asthma and other respiratory or cardiac conditions. Even healthy adults often report experiencing fatigue, headaches, or a “heavy” feeling outdoors when particulate pollution spikes to such high levels.Today’s sunny forecast does not automatically guarantee relief. With light winds and no rain expected, there may be limited “washout” or dispersion of pollutants. This means that pollution can remain stubborn, particularly in the morning and late evening when the air tends to stagnate.If you notice haze despite the sunshine, trust your senses and take precautions.
Planning for Monday
Regarding how to plan for Monday, the weather conditions support an easy day. This suggests wearing sunglasses for the afternoon glare and light layers for the morning chill. A slightly warmer top is advisable if one plans to be out after sunset. However, given yesterday’s severe AQI, it is recommended to consider shifting workouts indoors. This advice is especially pertinent for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or allergies. If outdoor commutes are unavoidable, a well-fitting mask can provide assistance in traffic-heavy zones. Keeping windows closed during peak pollution hours and utilizing an air purifier, if available, may make a noticeable difference at home.
The Week Ahead
The forecast for New Delhi for the week ahead indicates largely stable and sun-led conditions. January 20 through January 22 are expected to remain sunny. Daytime highs are projected to nudge up from 25.9°C to 26.6°C during this period. Nighttime temperatures are also expected to slowly warm, from 14.8°C to 16.1°C. Winds are forecast to pick up slightly on January 22, reaching up to 13.7 kilometers per hour, which could potentially help with ventilation.The main change in the weather arrives on Friday, January 23. Conditions are expected to turn to “patchy rain nearby” with a 71 percent chance of rain. Humidity levels are also predicted to be higher, at 60 percent.Even light rain can temporarily improve air quality by knocking down particulates, so this may be the week’s most promising “breathing window.”The weekend is then expected to return to brighter skies. January 24 looks sunny, while January 25 is forecast to be partly cloudy with breezier winds. These winds, reaching up to 17.3 kilometers per hour, represent another potential assist for dispersion of pollutants.A bonus insight notes that the recent pollution run has been consistently extreme.the recent pollution run has been consistently extreme—multiple days in severe territory—so don’t be fooled by a run of sunny forecasts.For outdoor plans, Friday’s damp spell may offer the best chance of marginal air improvement, while calm, dry days could keep pollution stubborn.Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
