Weather alert: Single-digit temperatures hit Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi

ISLAMABAD: The grip of the cold has tightened as a consequence of icy winds and plummeting temperatures that fell below the expected levels in large cities.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, this cold wave is expected to continue in the days to come, while air pollution and thick fog are making life miserable for people.

In Lahore, the bitterness of the cold is severe as the city has recorded a minimum of 4°C.

The Met Office says that this biting weather is expected to remain in the city until January 18, as the humidity levels seen in the city have reached as high as 98%. Light winds of 5 km/hr and absolutely no rainfall.

The air quality in Lahore is quite alarming, with an overall Air Quality Index rating of 189, thereby placing it at the fourth position in the listing of most polluted cities worldwide. Health experts advise people to avoid going outdoors except when it is obligatory.

Karachi is also experiencing the effects, with temperatures plummeting to 9°C because of northeasterly winds.

Analysts have revealed that the effects of the cool weather in Quetta, which is extending to Karachi, would continue to cool temperatures in the coming48 hours. Highs today would likely be in the range of 24 to 26 degrees Celsius.

In the region of Karachi, the humidity levels are 45%. The air quality index categorizes Karachi as unhealthy; Karachi ranks tenth among other polluted cities with particulate matter of 139 units.

In Islamabad, the cold weather continues unabated, with the minimum temperatures being a chilling 3°C. The Met Office also predicts a cold and dry day with maximum temperatures not exceeding 15°C.

The wind is blowing at a moderate speed of 9 km/h, with relative humidity above 60%.