Islamabad and other parts of Pakistan experienced rainfall of varying intensities, bringing a noticeable chill to the weather. This much-anticipated wet spell, which lasted over the past couple of days, significantly reduced smog intensity by washing away hazardous pollutants from the atmosphere.
Westerly winds contributed to the improvement in air quality as well. Plains, including Lahore, enjoyed sunshine for an extended duration, a welcome change after prolonged hazy conditions. Despite the improvement, smog and dense fog persisted in some areas, especially during the morning and night hours.
Rain and thunderstorms were recorded at isolated locations in regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Islamabad over the last 24 hours. Notably, smog levels decreased compared to previous days, though fog remained dense in many parts of Punjab.
The rainfall data showed Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan receiving 4 mm, followed by Bagrote with 3 mm and Bunji with 1 mm. In Islamabad, Golra and Zero Point reported 2 mm and 1 mm, respectively. Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and multiple locations in Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, also recorded 1 mm each. Meanwhile, Leh remained the coldest location in the country, with temperatures plummeting to 7°C below freezing.
In Islamabad, the minimum temperature was recorded at 8°C, with a morning relative humidity of 94 percent. Rawalpindi saw a maximum temperature of 11°C, and its relative humidity in the morning stood at 79 percent. Both cities experienced cooler conditions, aligning with seasonal expectations.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), continental air currently dominates most parts of the country. Under these circumstances, cold and dry weather is expected to prevail in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and other areas on Sunday night, as well as Monday and Tuesday. However, dense fog and smog are likely to persist in parts of Punjab during this period.
Looking ahead, the minimum temperature in Islamabad is forecasted to range between 6°C and 8°C on Monday and Tuesday, while Rawalpindi’s minimum temperature is expected to stay between 9°C and 11°C during the same days.
