Prolonged Dry Spell in Punjab: Lahore’s Weather Woes and Rising Health Concerns

Posted on December 16, 2024 by News Desk

Prolonged Dry Spell in Punjab: Lahore's Weather Woes and Rising Health Concerns

Lahore and other parts of Punjab continue to experience a prolonged dry spell, with no rain expected in the coming days, according to the Meteorological Department. This persistent cold and dry weather has brought with it not just a sharp drop in temperatures but also a significant rise in health and environmental concerns.

Chilly Days and Nights in Lahore
Lahore’s minimum temperature recently plummeted to 5°C, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 20°C. While this chilly weather is characteristic of winter, it has been exacerbated by the lack of rainfall. The situation is unlikely to improve in the short term, with dry and cold conditions forecasted to persist for the next 2-3 days.

Unhealthy Air Quality
Adding to Lahore’s woes is its alarming Air Quality Index (AQI), which has reached 291, classified as “very unhealthy.” Lahore ranks second only to Delhi, where the AQI has soared to 521, making it a hub of hazardous air pollution. Prolonged exposure to such poor air quality can have severe health implications, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Health Precautions Amid Seasonal Illnesses
The cold, dry conditions have triggered a surge in seasonal ailments, including colds, flu, and persistent coughs. Health experts have advised citizens to:

  • Wear masks to protect against pollution and airborne viruses.
  • Consume immunity-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, ginger, and honey.
  • Stay hydrated and use humidifiers to combat dryness.

Regional Weather Update
Other parts of Pakistan are also experiencing similar conditions:

  • Islamabad and Quetta recorded a minimum temperature of 3°C, while Gilgit stood at 1°C.
  • Karachi remains relatively warmer at 13°C, but hilly areas like Murree and Peshawar are experiencing biting cold with temperatures dropping to 2°C.
  • Northwestern Balochistan may witness light rain and snowfall over the mountains during the night, offering some relief to its residents.

For those in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region, the forecast predicts partly cloudy and extremely cold weather, particularly in cities like Srinagar, Leh, Pulwama, Anantnag, and Shopian.

Looking Ahead
With no immediate rainfall on the horizon, residents of Punjab must brace themselves for the ongoing cold and dry conditions. Precautionary measures and a focus on personal health are essential to weather this challenging period.

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