New Delhi witnessed historic rainfall over the past 24 hours, with 41.2 mm of rain recorded till 8:30 am on Saturday, marking the highest single-day December rainfall in 101 years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
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Record-Breaking Rainfall Statistics
- The previous record for the highest-ever single-day December rainfall was on December 3, 1923, with 75.7 mm.
- December 2024 has now become the fifth-highest in terms of monthly rainfall since records began in 1901.
- The cumulative rainfall recorded at Safdarjung Observatory is the second-highest for any December day since 1901.
Weather Dynamics
An active western disturbance combined with easterly winds led to widespread light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across Northwest and Central India, including Delhi-NCR.
- Yellow Alert: The IMD issued a yellow alert for Saturday, warning residents of continued light to moderate showers.
- Temperature Update: The minimum temperature stood at 12.7°C, six degrees above the season’s average.
Air Quality Improvement
The rainfall also had a positive impact on the capital’s air quality.
- Current AQI Level: Delhi’s air quality improved to the ‘moderate’ category with an AQI reading of 152 at 9 am, as per the Central Pollution Control Board.
- AQI Categories:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
Impact and Outlook
- Relief from Pollution: The rainfall has significantly contributed to dispersing pollutants, offering residents cleaner air and a much-needed respite from persistent smog.
- Forecast: Overcast skies are expected to persist, with light to moderate rainfall likely throughout the day, keeping temperatures relatively warm for December.
Delhi’s unseasonal rain not only brings rare climatic records into focus but also offers a welcome improvement in air quality, albeit with disruptions to daily life.