Pakistan: Adverse weather forecast across central, northern, and western regions through at least Jan. 26

Adverse weather is forecast across central, northern, and western regions of Pakistan through at least Jan. 26 As of Jan. 20, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that cold and dry weather will continue across most of the country, with the coldest conditions likely to continue over parts of northern Balochistan. Frost over mountainous areas is expected over parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Smog and fog will persist in Islamabad Capital Territory, as well as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and northern Sindh provinces.

Low visibility has disrupted road, rail, and air traffic in several areas, especially in Punjab Province; affected locations include Islamabad, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. In areas affected by high levels of air pollution, vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, people suffering from asthma or other lung diseases, and people with heart disease, are at particular risk of negative health consequences from the smoke.

Localized business disruptions may occur due to employees' inability to reach work sites are possible. City administrations could declare holidays for educational institutions and offices during periods of severe air pollution. Utility disruptions such as unannounced power outages cannot be ruled out.