This week, Delhi saw an unexpected plunge in temperatures to record the coldest November morning since 2022, with mercury dipping to 8°C at the Safdarjung observatory. Since winter arrived sooner than expected, catching residents and meteorologists off guard, the decline was sharper compared to previous years. The steep fall in temperature has also escalated concerns over air pollution, making November 2025 one of the most difficult periods for public health in the national capital.
An Unusually Early Start to Winter
The mornings in Delhi are usually cool during the month of November, but a low temperature of 8°C is quite rare for this time of the month. According to the India Meteorological Department, this is the lowest minimum temperature recorded during the month of November within the last three years. Usually, the decline to single-digit temperatures is expected in early to mid-December and not before even the end of the month.
Weather analysts have said this sudden dip may be ascribed to strong cold northwesterly winds blowing into the plains after fresh snowfall in the western Himalayas. Additional reasons for the steep drop are clear skies at night, which accelerates heat loss from the surface. Together, the cold winds and stable atmosphere, with cloud-free nights, were therefore an ideal set of conditions for an early winter chill over Delhi.
A Double Burden: Cold + Pollution
What is making it even more uncomfortable this year is the concurrent rise in air pollution. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has stayed within the “very poor” category for several days in succession, with some areas dipping into the “severe” bracket during early morning hours. As temperature drops, pollutants get trapped closer to the surface, visibility reduces, and a thick layer of smog engulfs the city.
Health experts have questioned the seriousness of this combination of cold air and toxic pollution, primarily for vulnerable groups. Hospitals have reported a rise in respiratory problems, including asthma attacks, prolonged coughs, eye irritation, and episodes of breathlessness. Children, the aged, and those suffering from cardiac or lung-related ailments are more vulnerable.
Doctors, meanwhile, have advised residents to avoid early morning outdoor activities, instead recommending indoor workouts and use of N95 masks while going outdoors. They also advise the use of air purifiers in homes and offices where possible.
Life in the Capital Adjusts to the Chill
The pace and mood in this city have changed with the sudden cold. Early morning walkers and cyclists were fewer in numbers as most people preferred to stay indoors till the fog had lifted. Street vendors huddled around small fires for warmth, while commuters were seen layering up earlier than usual for late November.
Schools across Delhi issued advisories to parents, asking for children to wear full winter uniforms earlier than is usually necessary. As pollution levels continue to soar, several schools have strengthened mask mandates and restrictions on outdoor activities.
Office-goers had a longer travel time with fog and smog together bringing down visibility in the early hours. Many important traffic routes witnessed slow movement, particularly near ISBT, Akshardham, ITO, and the Ring Road stretches where haze is known to accumulate thickly.
What the IMD Predicts Next
The temperatures may stay low for a few more days before gradually inching up, says the forecast by IMD. But, according to the meteorologists, this early dip in temperature could be an indication of a severe winter in store, with December and January throwing up more frequent cold-wave spells.
Weather models indicate that more such sudden drops could be witnessed, with cold winds continuing to flow into the northern plains. The IMD has asked citizens to prepare for colder-than-usual mornings and monitor weather advisories regularly.
Government and Civic Response
Meanwhile, with the drop in temperature along with hazardous air quality, civic agencies have intensified efforts to bring in relief. The Delhi government has:
Operations for night shelters were enhanced to accommodate more people.
Instructed teams to distribute extra blankets and winter essentials.
Increased patrolling around open areas to guide homeless individuals towards shelters
Issued public health advisories on safe outdoor timings and protective measures
In addition, pollution control under the Graded Response Action Plan continues to be implemented, restricting construction activities, intensifying cleaning of roads to reduce dust, and mounting surveillance of industrial emissions. Conclusion The coldest November morning in three years marks an unusually early start to winter in the capital. While the seasonal shift may be welcome, the cold air mixed with persistent pollution this year has made things particularly challenging. As temperatures continue to seesaw, the need for citizens to be prepared, follow health advisories, and take protective measures will become paramount. The coming winter might be colder and more inclement, but awareness and caution can see Delhi through safely.
