Delhi-NCR is likely to see isolated rain and thunderstorms on October 8. The IMD has not issued any heavy-rain warning for the capital. Short spells of rain with lightning are expected instead.

Delhi’s air quality remained in the moderate category on Thursday. Rain and stronger winds can wash out pollutants for a short time. But experts say long-term air quality depends on local emissions.

The IMD has forecast heavy rain for Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Scattered showers are expected in Delhi, Patna and Lucknow. Odisha is also under watch this week.

The southwest monsoon is withdrawing from Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The country is moving into the post-monsoon phase. Delhi’s pollution usually rises in the coming weeks as winter approaches.

The capital’s pollution usually worsens after Diwali. Stubble burning in nearby states adds to the problem. The CAQM has asked agencies to control dust at construction sites. Citizens have been advised to limit outdoor activity on bad-air days. Public transport is being encouraged over private cars. The next few weeks will decide how bad this year’s smog season gets.