New Delhi begins Friday, January 23, 2026, with moderate rain and a high chance of showers, impacting commute plans. Temperatures are mild for late January, but the combination of rain and lingering winter haze may make the air feel heavy. Yesterday’s air quality was in the “severe” bracket, meaning sensitive groups may still feel the impact today, despite the rain. Residents are advised to take precautions for both the weather and lingering pollution throughout the day and into a week of fluctuating conditions.The day starts on a wet note in New Delhi. Moderate rain is likely through the day, with a high chance of showers shaping commute plans for many.Temperatures are expected to stay fairly mild for late January. However, the combination of rain and lingering winter haze could still make the air feel heavy.Today’s forecast points to a maximum of around 18.1°C and a minimum near 12.9°C. This results in an average temperature close to 16°C, which is comfortable on paper but damp in reality.Humidity is elevated at about 64%. This means residents can expect that clammy, sticky feel that often comes with winter rain in the capital.Winds may pick up to roughly 23.4 km/h at times. This can make open stretches and flyovers feel noticeably cooler, especially when wet.The chance of precipitation is high at 93%. A notable 13.19 mm of rain is expected across the day.This suggests it will not just be a token drizzle. Periods of steadier rain are possible, particularly from late morning into the afternoon when cloud cover tends to hold.Visibility averages around 9.3 km, which is generally decent. However, showers can still cause brief dips in visibility.Drivers should be cautious around evening rush hour. Wet roads and glare from headlights can create tricky conditions during this time.Sunrise is at 7:13 AM and sunset at 5:52 PM. This indicates that the day remains short.If planning errands, the most practical window is often between rain spells. Residents should keep an eye out for lulls rather than expecting a fully dry stretch.
Lingering Pollution Concerns
Yesterday’s air quality sat in the “severe” bracket. This means even with rain around today, sensitive groups may still feel the impact.Thursday, January 22, recorded very poor air by any standard. AQI-IN was 371, placing New Delhi in the “severe” category.The US AQI equivalent was also extremely high at 326. Particulate pollution dominated the picture.PM2.5 was measured at 217 and PM10 at 281. CO was also elevated at 409, adding to the overall stress on respiratory health.These levels commonly trigger throat irritation, coughing, headaches, and breathlessness. This is especially true for children, older adults, and those with asthma or heart conditions.Rain can “wash out” some particles, and breezier periods can improve dispersion. However, with severe pollution as the starting point, a clean-air day is not immediately expected.Post-rain humidity and traffic emissions can still keep pockets of bad air. This is particularly true near busy corridors and construction zones.
Recommendations and Precautions
If you’re stepping out early, it’s smart to keep a mask handy and plan shorter outdoor stretches.Residents should carry an umbrella or a light rain jacket. Today’s rain probability is too high to gamble on staying dry.Footpaths and underpasses can get slushy quickly. Closed shoes with grip are a safer bet than sandals.If commuting, budget extra time for waterlogging-prone routes and slower traffic.From a health standpoint, yesterday’s severe AQI is a strong reason to limit long outdoor workouts.If outdoor activity is necessary, consider a well-fitted mask in traffic-heavy areas. Keeping indoor air as clean as possible by shutting windows during peak congestion hours is also advised.Warm fluids can help with irritation that often comes after high-PM days.
Outlook for the Week Ahead
After today’s wet spell, Saturday, January 24, looks calmer and partly cloudy. It will feature a warmer high near 19.1°C but a sharper dip at night to about 9.6°C.This forecast is good for daytime plans. However, a layer should be kept handy for the evening.Sunday, January 25, stays dry but turns overcast. Similar temperatures and lower humidity are expected, which may feel more comfortable.Monday, January 26, appears the best outdoor day of the week. Sunny skies and a higher peak around 20.5°C are forecast, along with light winds.From Tuesday, January 27, and Wednesday, January 28, patchy rain returns. Rain chances are 84% and 76% respectively.These days will also bring more humidity. Plans should remain flexible during this period.Thursday, January 29, looks partly cloudy and dry again. A pleasant high near 20.9°C is expected.“While pollution has been consistently extreme through the past week, yesterday’s severe reading (AQI-IN 371) was actually ‘less bad’ than several earlier days that touched even higher ‘severe-plus’ territory.”“This suggests any rain-led relief this week could be especially welcome, even if gradual.”Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
