Karachi, December 31, 2024 – Speculation is rife as residents await confirmation from the Sindh government regarding a possible extension of school winter vacations.
Initially scheduled to resume on January 1, 2025, schools in the province might remain closed due to an unexpected drop in temperatures, leading to extremely cold mornings. This has fueled widespread anticipation among parents and students for an official announcement prolonging the holidays.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted further temperature declines in Karachi. Nighttime temperatures are expected to range between 8°C and 10°C over the next three days.
The current cold wave, attributed to a shallow westerly disturbance affecting the western and northern regions of Pakistan, is expected to deepen, impacting Karachi’s weather conditions as well.
Typically known for its moderate winters, Karachi has been experiencing uncharacteristically chilly nights, compelling its residents to take extra precautions to stay warm. The PMD explains that the cold spell is primarily driven by prevailing continental air across much of the country.
Weather Outlook for Karachi and Surrounding Regions
Tuesday: Karachi is predicted to experience cold and dry weather, consistent with most regions. Nationally, very cold and partly cloudy conditions will dominate hilly areas, with isolated light rain or snow likely in North Balochistan, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan by evening or night.
Wednesday: Karachi’s weather is expected to remain partly cloudy and cold, echoing the broader national forecast. Rain or light snow might occur in scattered areas of north-western Balochistan, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
Dense fog is also anticipated in the plains of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh during nighttime and early morning hours.
As parents, students, and educational institutions await clarity from the Sindh government, the decision to extend the winter break hinges on weather developments in the coming days.
For now, Karachi’s residents brace themselves for an unusually cold start to the new year, with many hoping for an official holiday extension to navigate the frosty conditions.