Islamabad, March 12, 2026 – The ongoing strikes by the US and Israel on Iran have created a regional air pollution risk, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue warnings that pollutants could reach western Pakistan in the coming days.
Cities at Risk
According to PMD maps, pollutants from the conflict in Iran may affect Quetta, Peshawar, Gwadar, and Turbat, potentially deteriorating air quality in these cities. Meteorologists warned that westerly winds are likely to carry airborne pollutants across the western parts of the country.
Synoptic Situation
A westerly wave is currently impacting western and upper regions of Pakistan and is expected to persist until tonight.
• Thursday Forecast: Partly cloudy conditions with rain, wind, and thunderstorms are expected in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Isolated hailstorms may also occur.
• Friday Forecast: Most parts of Pakistan will experience dry weather, while some areas of Gilgit-Baltistan may see light rain and thunderstorms.
Past 24 Hours Weather Summary
Rain and thunderstorms were reported at isolated locations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Islamabad, and the Potohar region. Meanwhile, southern Pakistan remained hot and dry.
Recent Rainfall (mm):
• Gilgit-Baltistan: Skardu 21, Chilas 13, Bunji 11, Astore 09, Gilgit 07
• Punjab: Sheikhupura 20, Attock 13, Murree 13, Lahore (Airport 13, City 06), Islamabad (Saidpur 13, City 11, Bokra 06)
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Balakot 15, Malam Jabba 12, Dir Upper 11, Dir Lower 07, Kalam 06, Peshawar 05
Today’s Recorded Highest Temperatures (°C):
• Mithi, Chhor, Padidan 39°C
• Karachi and Shaheed Benazirabad 38°C
PMD advised residents in affected areas to monitor air quality reports, reduce outdoor activities during high pollution periods, and take precautions to protect health, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the old-age, and those with respiratory conditions.
This development underscores the regional impact of geopolitical conflicts on Pakistan’s weather and air quality, with western cities particularly at risk due to prevailing wind patterns.