KARACHI: The Meteorological Department has firmly dismissed claims circulating about an extreme cold wave expected later this month, urging the public to avoid relying on unverified weather predictions shared on social media.
It clarified that between January 16 and January 25, no unprecedented or severe cold spell is forecast. Officials confirmed that the reports suggesting a drastic temperature drop lack foundation and are not aligned with official predictions. There is no evidence indicating temperatures will dip below freezing in the plains during this timeframe.
The Meteorological Department has outrightly dismissed such reports, labeling them as inaccurate and misleading.
The department strongly advised the public to follow weather information strictly from official outlets. It warned about the potential for unnecessary confusion and panic caused by spreading unconfirmed speculation. Officials emphasized that standard winter conditions are anticipated, with no projections of an extraordinary cold event during January 16 to 25.
Ongoing cold spell in Karachi and Lahore
In Karachi, temperatures have dropped to single digits, resulting in cooler and drier weather persisting over several days. The Met Department reported a minimum temperature of 8 degrees Celsius in the city, accompanied by humidity at 40%, intensifying the dry atmosphere.
In contrast, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert for dense fog conditions in Lahore and other districts of Punjab until January 16. The Met Department forecasts continued dry weather and a further dip in temperatures across the region in coming days.
Lahore and nearby areas are experiencing intensified foggy conditions, with authorities noting that fog density may increase before mid-January. Strong cold winds are sweeping across the city, and officials anticipate an additional temperature drop in the days ahead.
