The residents of Lahore are bundled up and bracing for the bitter cold as the city experiences record-breaking low temperatures. The mercury dipped to a chilling 5 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning, marking one of the coldest days of the ongoing winter wave. However, the thick fog that blanketed the city in recent days has shown some signs of thinning due to the cold winds blowing, which have, on the other hand, amplified the sensation of cold. Residents report increased instances of cold-related illnesses, with hospitals seeing a rise in patients suffering from respiratory problems, skin ailments and most importantly, pneumonia. The city's air quality, already a cause for concern, has further deteriorated to an unhealthy 174 on the Air Quality Index (AQI) scale. Daska Battling Fog: Meanwhile, in the nearby city of Daska and its surroundings, heavy fog has significantly reduced visibility, disrupting traffic flow and adding to the misery of residents. The dense fog, combined with the biting cold, has made venturing outdoors a hazardous affair due to the consistently dropping mercury levels. On the other hand, locals have started complaining about suffering from various diseases. While Lahore and Daska shiver, the weather picture across Pakistan presents a mixed bag.

Light rain with strong winds and thunderstorms brought some respite to parts of Balochistan, while most of the plain areas experienced cold and dry conditions. The northern mountainous regions, however, remain gripped by a very cold and partially cloudy spell. The weather has turned colder in Gwadar and Turbat from with thundershowers late in the night. Concerns and Precautions: With the cold wave showing no signs of abating, authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions. Warm clothing, proper hydration, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the cold are essential to stay safe. Additionally, maintaining good air quality within homes and reducing outdoor activities are crucial to mitigate the health risks associated with the cold and polluted air. Looking Ahead: Meteorologists predict the cold wave to persist for the next few days, with Lahore and Daska likely to remain in its grip. The thinning of the fog in Lahore offers some hope of improved visibility, but the biting winds are expected to keep the city feeling icy. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and follow advisories issued by authorities to navigate the harsh weather conditions safely.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)