Pakistan’s dry winter shows no signs of easing, with the Met Department announcing that neither rainfall nor snowfall is expected through November and December.
As smog and fog intensify across the plains, officials warn that worsening air quality and water scarcity could create additional challenges.
Dry winter grips country
Cold weather has begun settling across Pakistan, but the long-awaited winter rains have yet to arrive. The dry conditions have also reached the upper regions, with no signs of snowfall in the northern areas.
Due to the persistent dryness, hospitals are seeing a growing influx of patients suffering from seasonal illnesses. The absence of precipitation continues to exacerbate both environmental and public health concerns.
Met Dept forecasts no rain or snowfall
According to the latest outlook from the Met Department, the country should not expect rain through the remainder of November and December. Officials say the weather will stay dry, cold, and marked by low temperatures.
Met Deputy Director Irfan Virk said smog and fog will remain widespread in the plains. He added that the prolonged dryness has increased pollution levels, particularly in regions where winter haze typically worsens.
Rising smog, fog across major regions
The Met Department anticipates thicker fog and smog formation in the coming days. Northeastern and southern Punjab are expected to see heavy early morning fog, while plains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to face similar conditions.
In Islamabad, officials warn that smog and fog may disrupt transportation, lowering visibility and complicating travel. The department has also advised that air pollution poses serious risks to people with respiratory illnesses.
Experts emphasize the urgent need to use water reserves cautiously due to the lack of rainfall. They warn that without new precipitation, water shortages could worsen.
Irfan Virk noted that water in Tarbela and Mangla dams must be regulated more carefully because no new water will come from melting glaciers or snow during this dry spell.
Continuous monitoring for potential drought
Meteorological officials say they are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation. They assure that timely measures will be recommended if the country begins drifting toward drought-like conditions.
With winter progressing without rainfall, the call for conservation and preparedness has become increasingly critical for both officials and citizens.
