In recent days, Karachi, the bustling port city, has experienced a noticeable drop in temperature, accompanied by cold winds sweeping in from the east. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), these winds are moving at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour.
The city’s residents can expect a minimum temperature ranging between 13°C to 15°C, while the maximum will hover around 28°C to 30°C. Humidity levels stand at 50%, with a possibility of morning fog over the plains.
The Met Office predicts dry weather for the next 24 hours, but nights are expected to be cooler in Karachi and throughout Sindh.
However, amidst the cooling temperatures, the air quality in Karachi raises concerns. The Air Quality Index (AQI) currently sits at 188, marking it as “unhealthy” according to IQAir, a Swiss air quality assessment company. Karachi holds the fifth position on the World AQI Ranking, with Lahore leading the chart.
IQAir reports that the PM2.5 concentration in Karachi is 28.1 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline. PM2.5 refers to particle pollution from fine particulates, posing a hazard to atmospheric air quality.
In response to the heightened pollution levels, residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed to prevent outdoor air from entering homes, wear masks when outside, and consider using air purifiers indoors.
A recent episode of smog enveloped Karachi, aggravating air quality issues. Weather and climate expert Owais Haider attributed the decline in air quality to pollution, exacerbated by light winds from the northeast carrying particulate matter into the air. High humidity and light air contributed to foggy conditions, which combined with particulate matter to form smog.
As Karachi navigates through the cooler temperatures, addressing air quality concerns becomes imperative for the well-being of its residents.
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