Air pollution levels are increasing in the National Capital Region of Delhi. Delhiites may have to face worrying air quality conditions in the coming week. The forecast shows that Delhi’s air quality will remain in the “very poor” category between October 28 and October 30, 2024. Factors such as firecrackers and straw burning can make the situation worse. Therefore, pollution levels may reach “severe” levels by October 30. The problem is that current meteorological conditions are not conducive to carrying pollutants away from Delhi, leaving the city’s air stagnant and laden with harmful particles. IITM predicts that Pune has issued a pollution forecast for the next six days.
The smog will go away with the wind
During this period, the wind speed mainly coming from the southeast is expected to be 8 km/h on October 28, gradually increasing to 6 to 12 km/h by October 30. Along with these winds, there will be haze in the morning, but the sky will still be clear, which will not do much to reduce pollution levels.
Slow wind speed and direction, as well as the formation of morning fog, prevent the effective dissipation of pollutants accumulated during the night. Maximum mixing depths of 1500 to 1550 meters are expected in the coming days. In addition, the continued low ventilation index also indicates that it is not conducive to reducing pollution factors. By October 30, the ventilation index will drop to 2800 m2/s, below the threshold required for favorable conditions in the area, highlighting the need for external intervention to mitigate air quality.
Take these steps to avoid contamination
Government agencies have advised Delhiites to take precautionary measures to avoid health risks associated with long-term exposure to poor air quality, such as limiting outdoor activities and using indoor air purifiers.
At this time, new pollutant control work should be actively carried out. Especially during this sensitive period, because this is the period when pollution is most harmful to people. Looking at the forecast for the coming days, forecasts indicate that challenges will remain. Air quality is expected to remain between “very poor” and “severe” for six days after October 30, underscoring the need for strategic initiatives to address air pollution.
