New Delhi, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, is experiencing a sunny winter day with comfortable afternoon warmth and cooler nights, despite persistent “severe” AQI concerns from yesterday’s AQI. This lingering pollution, attributed to light winds and stable winter air, necessitates precautions like mask-wearing and indoor air management for residents. The week ahead forecasts continued clear skies until January 23, when moderate rain is expected to temporarily improve air quality.The day begins on a bright, winter-sun kind of note. The forecast indicates sunny conditions will persist through the entire day. Comfortable afternoon warmth is expected. A noticeably cooler night is anticipated to set in after sunset.A high temperature of 23.5°C is expected for the day. The low temperature is forecast at 12.7°C. This combination creates a classic Delhi winter day. The midday sun will feel inviting. However, the evening is expected to turn crisp quickly.Humidity is forecast around 36%. This level suggests the air will feel relatively dry. Visibility looks good, estimated at approximately 10 km. Winds are expected to remain light to moderate. The top speed for winds is near 12.2 kph. These winds can take the edge off the afternoon warmth, especially in open areas.Rain is not part of today’s weather story. The chance of precipitation sits at 0%. No rainfall is expected for the day. Skies will stay clear, and the sun will be dominant. The best outdoor window is likely from late morning to late afternoon. After sunset at 5:51 PM, temperatures typically slide down quickly in Delhi. If heading out for dinner or a late commute, keeping a light layer handy is advisable. On the astronomy clock, sunrise is at 7:14 AM.
Air Quality Concerns
Air quality, however, comes with a warning sign. Yesterday’s AQI was in the “severe” range. This condition can linger into today despite the clear skies. If stepping out early, it is a pleasant morning for a short walk. However, it is still smart to carry a mask for traffic-heavy stretches.Even though today’s weather is sunny and dry, conditions that feel “cleaner” they do not always clear pollution. Light winds and stable winter air can allow haze and fine particles to hang close to the ground. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable around morning and late evening commute peaks. The absence of rain also means there is no natural washout effect today.On Tuesday, January 20, New Delhi’s air quality was “firmly in the danger zone.” The AQI (India) hit 415. This level is categorised as Severe. The US AQI stood at 423. The key concern was particulate pollution. PM2.5 measured 268. PM10 was 360. Both these levels are associated with specific health impacts. These include eye/throat irritation, coughing, and breathlessness. They also pose an increased risk for people with asthma, COPD, and heart disease. Children and older adults are also at higher risk.For those outdoors in the afternoon, sunglasses and sunscreen are advised. Delhi’s winter sun can be deceptively strong. For managing air quality, a well-fitted mask is recommended. This applies if on a two-wheeler, stuck at signals, or walking along main roads. If exercising, shifting it to midday is suggested. This is when the sun is up and the boundary layer is typically better mixed than early morning. At home, keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours can help. Using a basic air purifier or even wet mopping to settle dust can also assist on severe-AQI days.
The Week Ahead
The next couple of days are expected to stay in the same pleasant lane. January 22 looks sunny again. Temperatures are forecast to rise slightly to about 24.9°C for the high and 12.7°C for the low.A more significant shift arrives on January 23. The forecast turns to moderate rain on this day. Approximately 18.23 mm of rain is expected. The high temperature will be near 21.1°C. Winds are also expected to strengthen, peaking around 28.1 kph. That combination—rain plus stronger winds—can temporarily improve air quality by “knocking particles down and dispersing pollution.”Post-rain, temperatures are forecast to dip. January 24 is forecast to be partly cloudy and cooler. Temperatures will be roughly 18°C for the high and 9.1°C for the low. This will be followed by January 25. That day is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures of 19.6°C for the high and 9.9°C for the low. Sunshine is set to return on January 26. Temperatures are forecast around 21.8°C for the high and 10.7°C for the low. Another watch-out day is January 27. Patchy rain nearby is indicated, and rain chances rise again on this day.For planning outdoor time, January 21–22 are best for clear-sky plans. January 23 is the day to keep an umbrella handy and allow extra commute time.Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
