Karachi: The ongoing cold wave gripping Karachi has sent temperatures plummeting, with the mercury hitting a low of 6.2°C at Jinnah Terminal on Tuesday, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). This marks one of the coldest spells for the metropolis in recent years, as residents brace for continued chilly conditions.
Cold Wave to Persist
The PMD has forecast that the cold wave will persist until January 9, with temperatures expected to hover between 7°C and 9°C in the next 24 hours. Northeasterly winds blowing at a speed of 5 kilometers per hour, combined with humidity levels of 27%, have amplified the chill in the air.
In comparison to the January average of 12°C, the temperatures recorded in areas around Jinnah Terminal are significantly below normal, the weather department noted.
Citywide Temperature Variation
Other parts of Karachi also experienced biting cold, with Gulistan-e-Jauhar recording a low of 7.5°C, Sharea Faisal at 11.5°C, Mauripur at 10°C, and Bin Qasim at 11°C. Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz highlighted on Geo News’ program Geo Pakistan that the cold weather this year has been more intense than in previous winters. He predicted the current spell would continue for at least another two to three days.
Rain and Rising Cold Intensity
The drop in temperatures follows the season’s first rainfall last week, which brought drizzle and light showers to several parts of the city. Weather expert Owais Hyder remarked that the recent wet spell might have intensified the ongoing cold wave, further lowering temperatures.
Karachi and Beyond
The chilling weather is not limited to Karachi. Several regions in Balochistan are also reeling under a severe cold wave, with Quetta and Ziarat recording temperatures as low as -7°C and Kalat plunging to a bone-chilling -8°C.
As Karachiites adapt to the unusually cold weather, the city’s residents are urged to take precautions, especially during nighttime when temperatures dip further. With more cold days ahead, the city’s resilience is being tested as the cold wave adds to the challenges of daily life.
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