Winter Tightens Its Grip: Cold, Dry Weather to Prevail Across Pakistan as Fog and Smog Intensify
As winter deepens across Pakistan, large parts of the country are expected to remain under the influence of cold and dry weather tonight, while northern regions brace for a significant drop in temperatures. The latest advisory from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warns that several areas may also experience fog and smog, creating challenges for commuters and travelers.
Cold, Dry Conditions Dominate Nationwide Forecast
According to PMD officials, the weather system currently affecting the country is producing a noticeable dip in temperatures, especially in upper and northern regions. While the colder air is settling in, a dry spell is expected to continue for now, with no major rainfall forecast for tonight or early Sunday.
Islamabad: A Calm but Chilly Night Ahead
The federal capital Islamabad is likely to remain cold and dry tonight, with the same pattern expected to continue through Sunday. As temperatures gradually fall during the late-night hours, residents may feel an intensifying chill, particularly those living near open or sparsely populated areas.
Although the skies are likely to remain clear, the lack of cloud cover may cause temperatures to drop further during the early morning a typical phenomenon during winter when radiational cooling becomes more pronounced.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Foggy Mornings and Sharp Temperature Drops
Much like the federal capital, most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) are also expected to face cold and dry conditions. However, upper and mountainous parts of the province will experience even sharper temperature drops, especially in places such as Abbottabad, Swat, Dir, and Chitral.
The PMD has also cautioned that light fog is expected in Peshawar, Swabi, Mardan, Dera Ismail Khan, and surrounding regions during late-night and early-morning hours. This may lead to reduced visibility on major highways including the Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway (M-1) and Indus Highway, making travel potentially hazardous.
Authorities have urged residents planning to travel during these hours to exercise caution, keep vehicle headlights on low beam, and avoid unnecessary travel during fog-dense timings.
Punjab: Smog Continues to Choke Major Urban Centers
Punjab, the country’s most populous province, is forecast to remain cold and dry. However, the situation here is more complex due to persistent smog and fog, particularly in major cities.
According to the PMD, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Multan, Jhelum, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan are likely to experience moderate to dense smog. Many of these cities have already been struggling with deteriorating air quality in recent weeks.
The smog is expected to thicken during the early morning and night hours, reducing visibility and potentially worsening respiratory issues among vulnerable populations. Motorists are advised to take precautionary measures, including driving slowly, maintaining safe distances, and using fog lights when navigating through smog-prone areas.
Meanwhile, the scenic hill stations of Murree and Galiyat will continue to experience noticeably cold conditions. Temperatures here feel significantly lower due to strong winds and higher elevations. Tourists heading to these areas have been advised to dress warmly and prepare for potentially icy conditions during early morning hours.
Balochistan: Dry Spell Persists with Cold Winds in the Highlands
In Balochistan, cold and dry weather is expected to prevail across most districts. The temperature drop will be more pronounced in high-altitude areas such as Ziarat, Kalat, Quetta, and the surrounding belt.
The PMD reported that parts of northern Balochistan are likely to witness freezing temperatures as night approaches. With cold waves intensifying, residents of these regions may require additional precautions, especially those dependent on gas and wood for heating as shortages and low pressure often pose challenges in winter.
Sindh: Mild Winter Continues in the South
Sindh, on the other hand, will remain mostly dry with comparatively milder winter temperatures. Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Mirpurkhas are expected to experience cool but comfortable weather, particularly during the evening and early morning.
While winds are likely to remain light, Karachi may see a slight dip in temperature during the night, though nothing extreme compared to Pakistan’s northern belt. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain moderate, offering a pleasant weekend for outdoor activities.
Kashmir & Gilgit-Baltistan: Severe Cold Intensifies
Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) are set to experience cold and dry weather, with a sharp plunge in temperatures during morning and night hours.
Regions like Skardu, Astore, Gopis, and Gilgit may see freezing or near-freezing temperatures, with ice forming on water surfaces in certain areas. The severely cold conditions are likely to persist throughout the week, particularly in the upper valleys where wind chill further intensifies the cold.
Authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions, especially concerning heating, water supply, and protection against frostbite.
Coldest Spots of the Day: Sub-Zero Temperatures Grip the North
The PMD also released a list of today’s lowest recorded temperatures, highlighting the severity of winter in the northern regions. Some of the coldest locations include:
- Leh: –6°C
- Skardu: –5°C
- Babusar: –4°C
- Ziarat & Gilgit: –3°C
- Astore, Quetta, Kalat & Gopis: –2°C
These numbers reflect the growing intensity of winter in the upper tiers of the country, indicating that colder days lie ahead.
Travel Advisory and Health Precautions Issued
Given the widespread fog and smog conditions, meteorological authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel late at night or early in the morning. Motorists are advised to ensure their vehicles’ fog lights are functional and to monitor weather updates regularly.
Health experts have also warned that smog may trigger respiratory problems, particularly among children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma. Wearing masks outdoors, keeping windows closed during peak smog hours, and using air purifiers (if available) are recommended steps.
Winter Settles In
With cold and dry conditions expected to dominate the coming days, Pakistan braces for the full arrival of winter. While northern parts face deepening chill and freezing nights, central regions grapple with fog-related challenges, and southern areas enjoy relatively milder weather.
As the season progresses, the PMD is expected to issue further advisories related to temperature fluctuations, smog intensity, and any potential rain-bearing systems approaching the region.
