KARACHI: The Met Office on Sunday predicted dry and colder nights in Karachi over the next 24 hours. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 13.5 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature is expected to range between 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, according to the weather department. Morning humidity in Karachi was reported at 58 percent by the Met Office.
In terms of air quality, Karachi ranked as the 6th most polluted city in the world today, with a particulate matter reading of 187 on the air quality index. Health experts have labeled the air quality in Karachi as “very unhealthy” and recommended citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.
It’s worth noting that an air quality index (AQI) reading between 151 to 200 is considered unhealthy, while a reading between 201 to 300 is more harmful. An AQI reading over 300 is deemed extremely hazardous.
Experts attribute the increase in pollution during winter to the heavier air, which causes toxic particles to descend and create a layer of pollutants in the atmosphere. The smoke from various sources, such as factories and the burning of coal, garbage, oil, or tires, contributes to this pollution. These effects are prominent from the beginning to the end of the winter season.
Despite the filtering role of southwestern winds blowing from the sea in Karachi, which usually helps improve air quality, these winds tend to remain suspended during the winter, according to experts.
