New Delhi experienced a clear and sunny Monday on January 26, 2026, with afternoon temperatures reaching a comfortable peak near 21°C, despite the previous day’s air quality being categorized as “poor” to “very unhealthy” with an AQI-IN of 210. This lingering pollution suggested that while a short morning walk was suitable, a mask would be prudent in areas with heavy traffic. The day’s forecast included a high of 21.4°C and a low of 10.1°C, accompanied by light winds and no rain, which, while ensuring uninterrupted plans, also implied that pollutants might not disperse effectively. Sunday, January 25, had recorded high levels of PM2.5 and PM10. The upcoming week is expected to feature a pattern of rain midweek, followed by a return to bright and warmer conditions, with January 29 and 30 identified as optimal days for outdoor activities.
Detailed Monday Forecast
The city was anticipated to experience a comfortable peak temperature during the winter afternoon, reaching approximately 21°C. In contrast, the morning hours and the late evening period were expected to maintain a crisp atmospheric quality.The forecast for January 26 indicated a sunny day throughout. The maximum temperature was projected to be 21.4°C, while the minimum temperature was expected to drop to 10.1°C. The average temperature for the day was calculated to be around 15.2°C.Humidity levels were predicted to remain relatively manageable at approximately 46 percent. Visibility was expected to be strong, extending up to 10 kilometers, which would contribute to the city feeling clearer than it often does in late January.Winds were forecast to be on the gentler side, with speeds topping out near 6.1 kilometers per hour. This meant that residents would not experience a significant cleansing breeze.“Rain is essentially off the table today with 0 mm precipitation and 0% chance of rain.”This absence of precipitation meant that daily plans would not be interrupted by showers. However, the combination of light winds and no rain also suggested that pollution could remain stubborn in localized pockets across the city.Throughout the day, Delhi was expected to follow its familiar January rhythm. This included a cool morning period that would quickly warm up under the sun by late morning and early afternoon.Following sunset, a noticeable drop in comfort was anticipated. Sunrise occurred at 7:12 AM, and sunset was at 5:55 PM, indicating that the evening chill would begin to set in shortly after offices closed. If individuals were out late, the post-sunset temperature slide was expected to feel sharper than the daytime numbers might suggest.
Air Quality Concerns and Recommendations
For Sunday, January 25, Delhi’s air quality was officially recorded. The AQI-IN stood at 210, placing it in category 4. The AQI-US was 192.“poor” to “very unhealthy” bracket by common public-health guidance (AQI-IN 210, category 4).This level of air quality often leads to breathing discomfort for sensitive groups. It can also cause irritation even for otherwise healthy individuals during prolonged outdoor exposure.The primary contributors to the pollution were particulate matter. PM2.5 was measured at 106, and PM10 was recorded at 134. Both these levels were sufficiently high to make the air feel heavy, particularly in congested corridors. Carbon monoxide was logged at 264, as provided, serving as another reminder that traffic and combustion sources continue to be a daily factor in the city’s air quality.For today, the presence of sunshine was expected to make the day feel pleasant. However, with light winds and no rain, the atmosphere might not efficiently “flush out” pollutants.If individuals had recently experienced symptoms such as a dry throat, watery eyes, or a mild headache, yesterday’s particulate load was identified as a likely contributor. These effects could carry over into today, especially during the morning and late evening when air tends to stagnate closer to the ground.The midday period was considered the optimal window for stepping out. During this time, the sun would elevate temperatures into a comfortable range, and visibility was expected to be good.Wearing sunglasses would be beneficial in the bright afternoon conditions. A light jacket or hoodie was still recommended as a smart choice for early morning outings and after 6 PM.For those commuting by two-wheeler or spending time at busy crossings, considering a well-fitted mask was advised.“PM2.5 is the kind of pollutant that slips deep into the lungs.”Individuals sensitive to pollution were encouraged to keep their workouts indoors. If outdoor exercise was necessary, it was suggested to aim for late morning rather than dawn.
The Week Ahead: Rain and Return to Sunshine
The coming week was expected to present a clear weather pattern. Following today’s sunshine, a rainy interruption was anticipated, which would then be succeeded by a return to bright, warmer days.On January 27, moderate rain was expected. The high temperature was forecast at 21.3°C, with a low of 13°C. There was an 88 percent chance of rain, with approximately 5.48 millimeters of precipitation. Residents were advised to carry an umbrella and be mindful of potentially slippery evening roads.January 28 was also predicted to be a day of moderate rain. The high temperature would be 18.9°C, and the low 12.8°C. Around 5.26 millimeters of rain were expected, with an 88 percent chance of precipitation. Humidity levels were notably higher, reaching 83 percent.From January 29 to February 1, a stretch of sunny weather was expected to return. Daytime highs were projected to gradually increase from 21.6°C to 26°C by February 1. Nights would also slowly warm, with lows rising up to 14.7°C.“If you’re planning outdoor time, Jan 29 or Jan 30 look like the sweet spot—sunny, not too hot, and typically after rain has a chance to settle dust.”The two anticipated rainy days could temporarily improve air quality by washing out particulates. However, post-rain humidity can sometimes make lingering pollution feel heavier. Therefore, it was suggested to monitor how the air feels during commutes.“The two rainy days could temporarily improve air quality by washing out particulates, but post-rain humidity can sometimes make lingering pollution feel heavier—so keep an eye on how the air feels during commutes.”Source: Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
