Smog is so bad in New Delhi, air quality is beyond the 'hazardous' level

Pollution in India's capital is at obscenely dangerous levels.

Last year, smog in New Delhi covered the region similarly because of winter weather patterns, and it's back with a vengeance. It doesn't help that India's energy habits, from burning trash to using coal-fired power plants, produce a lot of pollution.

The smoggy conditions are visible from space, covering the northern part of the country in a milky haze. But that's not smoke or clouds. It's pollution.

The U.S. Embassy in India has New Delhi's air quality level at "hazardous" — the particulate level is so high it's actually off the charts, beyond the index max of 500. Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata aren't as dangerously high, but all are at unhealthy, elevated levels.

Particulate matter are small, microscopic particles that shouldn't be inhaled. They can get embedded in the lungs and even get into the bloodstream, which can lead to serious heart and lung problems.

This year, yet again, elevated smog levels have prompted a health warning. Schools are reportedly closed for the rest of the week in the capital.

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Visibility is also a struggle because of thick smog. However, bad visibility does make the country's scary poor air quality a less abstract concept that can't be overlooked.

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The government advises everyone stay inside and avoid outdoor activity as much as possible — and for good reason. At these levels, everyone can be adversely affected, not just the young, elderly, or those with respiratory issues.