Karachi Weather Update: Strong Winds and Intensified Cold Forecasted

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) announced Monday that Karachi residents should brace for intermittent strong winds as the ongoing cold wave tightens its grip on the city.

The Met Office reported that the minimum temperature in Karachi was recorded at 10.5°C. The weather is expected to remain cold and dry over the next 24 hours.

Humidity levels stand at 65%, and winds blowing from the northeast at 20 kilometers per hour will likely keep the minimum temperature between 9°C and 11°C.

Additionally, Karachi has been ranked as the third most polluted city in the world, according to the Swiss air quality monitor IQ Air.

The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at a “very unhealthy” level of 234.

The concentration of PM2.5 pollutants, fine particles that can enter the bloodstream when inhaled, was measured at 159 µg/m³, which is 31.8 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended guidelines.

The deteriorating air quality is likely influenced by Karachi’s cold weather, as smog and air pollution often worsen during winter due to lower temperatures trapping pollutants near the ground.

Karachi’s pollution levels have frequently ranked among the highest globally in recent months. However, it is not alone in facing severe air quality issues.

Lahore also appeared on IQ Air’s list, recording an AQI value of 162, classified as “unhealthy.”

The PMD and environmental experts continue to monitor the situation closely as Karachi’s residents face the dual challenge of intensified cold and worsening air pollution.