Karachi: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a major forecast regarding the onset of winter in Karachi, predicting that hot and dry conditions will persist today, with temperatures expected to remain high.

According to the Met Office, humidity levels are low, and while early mornings may bring slight coolness, the city will largely experience hot and dry weather throughout the day. Maximum temperatures in Karachi are expected to hover between 34°C and 35°C, accompanied by light northeast winds.

Meteorologists have noted that temperatures are likely to gradually decrease in November, with both daytime and nighttime readings dropping by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.

Despite this, the department warns that this year’s winter is expected to remain predominantly dry.

Currently, Karachi’s humidity stands at 50%, while air pollution continues to pose a serious health risk. The concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) in the city has been recorded at 158 µg/m³, indicating unhealthy air quality.

Nationwide, pollution levels remain alarming. An international air quality monitoring website reports Kasur as the most polluted city in Pakistan with PM2.5 levels at 686 µg/m³, followed by Raiwind (601 µg/m³), Gujranwala (442 µg/m³), Sheikhupura (358 µg/m³), and Faisalabad (337 µg/m³).

Meanwhile, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stands at 450, making it the third most polluted city in the country, according to the Punjab Environment Department.

The PMD has urged residents to take necessary precautions, particularly during peak pollution periods, and to stay hydrated as high temperatures continue to prevail.