The national Capital was left choking on Monday as the Air quality Index (AQI) on settled at 347, which falls under 'very poor' category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was even worse in the morning with the index plunging to 404 which is considered 'severe'. 

However, changed meteorological conditions resulting in thundershower and increased wind speed, improved the air in the later part of the day, bringing it to 'very poor' category.

Centre-run SAFAR has forecasted the air quality to improve over the coming days, but it is expected to steadfastly remain in the 'very poor' category. According to the forecast by SAFAR, the increasing wind speed will aid in dispelling the pollutants in the air.

Meanwhile, light rains lashed parts of Delhi and National Capital Region on Monday, bringing down temperature. The city remained covered with thick cover of cloud as it shivered under strong winds. Mercury stood at 18 degree Celsius as maximum temperature with the weatherman predicting further fall in the day temperature due to Western Disturbance in the hills in north.

On Sunday, the city recorded its warmest day in 10 years during winters with the Safdarjung Observatory recording a maximum temperature of 28 degree Celsius — 7 notches above the season's average.

The meteorological department has forecast the rain activity to continue till the next three to four days, saying that light to moderate rain and thundershower will occur in the Delhi-NCR region. They have also predicted hailstorm over isolated parts of the city. However, there will not be any fog due to rains.

IN DETAIL

• According to CPCB reports, the city recorded the AQI at 404 on Monday morning while it settled down at 347 later in the day due to weather conditions.   
• According to the forecast by SAFAR, the increasing wind speed will aid in dispelling the pollutants in the air in the coming days and keep the air quality fixed at ‘very poor’.