Islamabad, January 19, 2024 – As the winter chill persists, the Pakistan Met Office has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for Saturday, January 20, 2023, across the country.
According to the meteorological agency, a combination of cold and dry conditions is anticipated in most plain areas of Pakistan, while the northern regions are expected to experience very cold and partly cloudy weather.
In its official report, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) highlights the likelihood of dense fog and smog persisting in plain areas of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh. Additionally, frost is expected at some locations in the Pothohar region and Kashmir during the morning hours.
The meteorological authorities have issued a cautionary warning, indicating that dense fog is likely to continue over the plain areas of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh in the coming days. Citizens are advised to exercise caution, particularly due to the expected below-normal day temperatures in most parts of Punjab resulting from the persistent dense fog.
In terms of the synoptic situation, the PMD reports the presence of a shallow westerly wave over the western and upper parts of the country, which is anticipated to affect southwestern regions.
Reflecting on the weather conditions on Friday, January 19, 2024, the report indicates that predominantly cold and dry weather prevailed in most plain areas of the country, with the northern parts experiencing very cold and partly cloudy conditions. However, Balochistan witnessed partly cloudy to cloudy weather in most districts, with chances of light to moderate rain, wind, thunderstorms, and snowfall over mountains.
Dense fog and smog were reported to persist over plain areas of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh during the mentioned period.
Over the past 24 hours, the recorded weather observations indicate cold and dry weather dominating most parts of the country, with the northern regions experiencing very cold conditions. Notably, Lasbella received 17 mm of rain during this period, contributing to the precipitation data.
The PMD also provided a list of recorded lowest minimum temperatures (°C) during this time frame: Leh -12, Skardu -09, Kalam, Gilgit, Astore -06, Srinagar -05, Kalat, Gupis -04, Hunza, Dir, and Rawalakot -03.
As the nation braces itself for the forecasted weather conditions, citizens are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to dense fog and smog. The PMD will continue to monitor and update the weather situation, providing timely information to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.