New Delhi, Jan. 9 -- The mercury dipped to 5 degrees Celsius in the national capital on Friday as cold weather continued, with rain lashing parts of the city, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

A thick layer of smog also covered several areas, while air quality remained in the 'poor' to 'very poor' category across Delhi, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

CPCB readings showed that Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 280, which falls under the 'poor' category.

Several areas witnessed a sharp decline in air quality. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 385, placing it in the 'very poor' category. Other locations with high AQI levels included Chandni Chowk at 335, Jahangirpuri at 340, ...