Delhi gets brief clean-air window as rain and winds push AQI to ‘moderate’ after 3+ months
After rainfall and stronger winds, Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI improved to 192 (moderate) on January 24, 2026—its first ‘moderate’ day since October 13, 2025. Forecasts, however, warn that pollution levels could worsen again soon.
What happened
Delhi’s air quality improved sharply on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with the 24-hour average AQI recorded at 192, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category for the first time since October 13, 2025.
The improvement followed rainfall and strong winds, which helped disperse pollutants and reduce the sustained haze that had persisted for more than three months.
Why it matters for health
- A drop from ‘poor/very poor’ to ‘moderate’ can reduce immediate respiratory stress for sensitive groups, though ‘moderate’ air still carries risk for some people.
- Short-lived clean-air episodes can be followed by rapid deterioration, so precautions may still be needed depending on daily forecasts.
What to watch next
Forecast systems cited in the report indicate the AQI may deteriorate again in the coming days, so residents should track daily advisories and plan outdoor activity accordingly.