The Met Office has predicted dry weather and colder nights in Karachi over the next 24 hours, with northeastern winds blowing at a speed of seven kilometers per hour in the city. The minimum temperature recorded is 16.5 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature is expected to range between 28 to 30 degrees Celsius.
However, despite the weather conditions, Karachi is grappling with air quality issues. The city recorded a particulate matter reading of 183 on the air quality index, ranking it as the 10th most polluted city globally. Health experts have described Karachi’s air quality as “very unhealthy” and advised citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 151-200 is considered unhealthy, while a reading between 201 to 300 is more harmful, and an AQI reading exceeding 300 is extremely hazardous. Experts attribute the increase in pollution during winter to the heaviness of the air, causing poisonous particles to move downwards, creating a layer of pollution. Factors contributing to this include industrial emissions, burning of coal, garbage, oil, or tires.