A fresh spell of icy winds has intensified cold weather across various parts of Pakistan, with temperatures falling below normal in major cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that the cold wave will persist over the coming days, while smog and fog continue to worsen public discomfort.
In Lahore, freezing winds have pushed the minimum temperature down to 4°C. The PMD said the current cold spell is likely to continue until January 18.
Humidity levels in the city have surged to 98 percent, making the cold feel more severe, while chilly winds are blowing at around 5 km/h. No rainfall is expected in the next few days.
Air quality in Lahore has reached alarming levels, with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 189, placing the city fourth among the world’s most polluted cities.
Health experts have advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities.
Karachi has also experienced a noticeable drop in temperatures due to cold northeastern winds. The mercury is expected to remain between 10°C and 12°C, with further decline possible over the next two days.
Meteorologists said cold air from Quetta has influenced Karachi’s weather, and temperatures may fall further by Saturday or Sunday. However, the maximum temperature today is likely to remain between 24°C and 26°C.
Humidity in Karachi stands at 45 percent, while the city’s AQI indicates unhealthy air quality. Karachi currently ranks 10th among the world’s most polluted cities, with particulate matter recorded at 139.
Meanwhile, Islamabad continues to experience severe cold, with the minimum temperature dropping to 3°C.
The PMD forecast cold and dry weather, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 15°C. Winds are blowing at around 9 km/h, while humidity levels exceed 60 percent.
Dense fog in several sectors and the surrounding areas of Islamabad has reduced visibility.
No rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours. Due to intense cold, fog, and air pollution, experts have urged citizens to take precautionary measures and avoid unnecessary travel.
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There is an immense need for Government and public to focus on increasing levels of AQI . Government should encourage eco friendly and electric transport. Further they should try to make public transport effective to reduce individual transport. And there is almost no use of air purifiers at homes in Pakistan. There is need to rise awareness about it because most people don’t even know. They don’t fear air pollution because they can’t see it.