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Chennai: Over the past three days, key residential and commercial areas in Chennai have recorded alarmingly poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing the 200-mark—a level considered "Poor" and hazardous to public health. Monitoring stations in Kodambakkam, Arumbakkam, and Perungudi reported AQI levels consistently above 200, particularly from midnight to 7 AM, raising serious health concerns.
According to experts, the spike in pollution is largely due to local meteorological conditions rather than an increase in emission sources. Slow wind speeds, high humidity, and early morning fog are preventing the dispersal of pollutants. Fog particles trap airborne contaminants close to the ground, and in the absence of strong winds or rain, these pollutants linger well into the morning.
Chennai AQI today
Mahesh Palawat, Chief Meteorologist at Skymet Weather, explained, “This pollution is mostly caused by local factors. When the wind is not blowing fast, these pollutants remain in the air even after sunrise. Only strong, consistent winds or widespread rain can completely remove them.”
On Monday, AQI readings peaked between 239 and 204 in Kodambakkam, 223 and 204 in Arumbakkam, and 210 and 201 in Perungudi during pre-dawn hours. Though levels improved slightly to "Moderate" after sunrise, the air remained risky for sensitive groups, including individuals with asthma, lung, or heart conditions.
The primary pollutant identified across stations was PM2.5—fine particulate matter released from vehicles, construction, industrial activity, and waste burning. Due to their microscopic size, PM2.5 particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing significant respiratory and cardiovascular risks.
Chennai weather forecast
Looking ahead, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued fog or mist in urban and suburban areas through Tuesday morning, with partly cloudy skies and temperatures ranging from 21–22°C (minimum) to 30–31°C (maximum).
While air quality is expected to remain subpar in the near term, experts anticipate improvement later this month. Weather blogger Pradeep John noted, “There is a possibility of light rain around December 27th. However, in the next few days, night temperatures may drop below 20°C, which will prevent pollutants from easily dispersing.”
In light of the conditions, health activists and experts advise morning walkers and outdoor exercisers to take precautions—such as shifting workouts indoors or avoiding outdoor activity during early hours—until air quality improves. Residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, are urged to monitor AQI updates and limit exposure during high-pollution windows.
