Delhi weather forecast: Sunny skies, mild temperatures; lingering air quality concerns

New Delhi is experiencing a bright, sunny winter day on Sunday, January 25, 2026, characterized by comfortable afternoon warmth and distinctly cooler mornings and nights.

Despite the clear skies, air quality from Saturday, which registered an AQI (India) of 138, classified as "Poor (category 3)," is expected to linger into today, prompting recommendations for masks on busy roads for early commuters and suggesting longer outdoor workouts be saved for late morning.

Today's temperatures are forecast to range from a low of 9.7°C to a high of 19.9°C, with an average near 14.1°C, while gentle winds topping out around 11.9 kmph are not expected to quickly disperse pollution.

The week ahead for Delhi indicates a warmer start, with Monday, January 26, being sunny and noticeably warmer at 22.2°C, before a midweek shift brings "patchy rain nearby" on Tuesday, January 27, with an 84% chance of rain, and moderate rain on Wednesday, January 28, with an 86% chance, which may temporarily improve air quality by washing out particulates.


The day begins on a bright, winter-sun note.
The forecast indicates sunny conditions will persist throughout the day.
Afternoon warmth is expected to be comfortable, contrasting with distinctly cooler morning and night temperatures.
Today’s temperatures in Delhi are set to run from a low of 9.7°C to a high of 19.9°C.
The average temperature is projected to be near 14.1°C.
"pleasant in the sun, nippy in the shade."
Humidity is expected to remain relatively low at approximately 36%.
This low humidity usually contributes to a comfortable afternoon feel.
"a dry throat for commuters."
Winds are anticipated to remain gentle, reaching a maximum speed of around 11.9 kmph.
Strong breezes capable of quickly dispersing pollution are not expected.
"Rain is essentially off the table."
There is a 0% chance of rain, with 0 mm expected.
Visibility is forecast at 10 km, which should contribute to a clearer day compared to recent days.
Hourly shifts in weather conditions are not expected to be dramatic.
The sky is projected to remain largely stable throughout the day.
The coldest conditions are anticipated around early morning.
A steady warm-up is expected into midday.
A quick cooldown will follow after sunset.
Sunset is scheduled for 5:54 PM.
The chill typically returns soon after sunset.
A light jacket is advised for those out late.
"if the afternoon tempts you into short sleeves."

Air Quality Details

Saturday, January 24, closed with an AQI (India) of 138.
This reading is classified as Poor.
"Poor (category 3)."
On the US scale, the AQI for Saturday was 160.
This US AQI signals unhealthy air.
"unhealthy air for sensitive groups."
Elevated PM2.5 levels, recorded at 78, were among the main culprits.
PM10 levels were also elevated at 105.
Carbon monoxide (CO) was recorded at 237.
"Many residents—especially children, older adults, and those with asthma or allergies—may have felt eye irritation, throat discomfort, or heavier breathing during commutes."
Even with today's clear skies, winter sun does not automatically equate to clean air.
"Even if today looks postcard-sunny, winter sun doesn’t automatically equal clean air; without rain or stronger winds, particulate pollution can hang around, particularly near traffic corridors and construction zones."
Today’s dry, stable weather offers an upside.
"today’s dry, stable weather supports good visibility and comfortable movement across the city."
However, the same stability presents a downside.
"the same stability can sometimes slow down dispersion, so air quality may improve only gradually unless local emissions dip."

Activity Planning Tips

Timing is a crucial factor for planning activities today.
"This is a classic Delhi winter day where timing is everything."
The best window for a longer walk or park time is likely late morning to early afternoon.
Temperatures are friendlier during this period.
If stepping out early, carrying a mask is advisable in traffic-heavy areas.
Keeping water handy is also recommended, as low humidity can feel drying.
For errands and driving, sunglasses will be helpful against the bright sun.
It is important not to be misled into underdressing.
Evenings cool quickly after 6 PM.
Those exercising outdoors should choose open green spaces over roadside routes.
This choice helps to reduce PM exposure.
If sensitive to pollution, keeping exercise intensity moderate is suggested.

The Week Ahead

Delhi’s upcoming week generally leans warmer.
Sunshine is expected to hold strong for a couple of days.
Monday, January 26, is forecast to be sunny and noticeably warmer.
Temperatures on Monday will climb to 22.2°C, with a low of 10.1°C.
"a great day for outdoor plans."
Midweek, the weather pattern is set to shift.
Tuesday, January 27, will turn unsettled with.
"patchy rain nearby"
There is an 84% chance of rain on Tuesday, with approximately 2.11 mm expected.
Wednesday, January 28, looks wetter.
Moderate rain is expected on Wednesday, with an 86% chance.
Around 8.63 mm of rain is anticipated.
Humidity is also projected to jump sharply on these days.
These rain spells can have a temporary effect on air quality.
"These rain spells can temporarily wash out some particulates, often bringing short-lived relief to air quality."
From Thursday, January 29, onwards, sunshine is expected to return.
Temperatures will hover in the 22–23°C range.
Friday, January 30, is forecast to be partly cloudy.
Saturday, January 31, is trending overcast.
For those planning a picnic or a long outing, Monday is considered the best day.
Monday offers the cleanest weather bet.
If planning travel, keeping Tuesday and Wednesday flexible is advised due to the expected rain.
Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.
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