Islamabad, Pakistan is expected to experience mainly cold and dry weather in most regions, with very cold conditions in the northern areas and north Balochistan, as per the latest weather forecast issued by the National Weather Forecasting Centre, Islamabad on 02 January 2024.
According to National Weather Forecasting Centre – Islamabad, a continental air mass is currently dominating most parts of the country, while a shallow westerly wave is present over western Balochistan. This synoptic situation is leading to the prevailing weather conditions.
For Tuesday, the forecast predicts cold and dry weather in most areas, with dense fog and smog likely to persist in the plains of Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh. Isolated light rain or drizzle is anticipated in western Balochistan and the coastal areas of Makran.
The weather pattern is expected to continue into Wednesday, maintaining the cold and dry conditions across the country. Fog and smog will likely remain in the aforementioned plain areas during morning and night hours. Light rain or drizzle may occur in southwestern Balochistan and the coastal regions of Makran.
Over the past 24 hours, cold and dry weather has prevailed over most parts of Pakistan, with very cold conditions in the northern regions and northern Balochistan. Dense fog and smog have been a significant feature in the plains of Punjab. Dalbandin recorded light rain of 1mm.
The lowest recorded temperatures today were in Leh at -11°C, followed by Skardu at -09°C. Other cold regions included Gilgit and Gupis at -06°C, and Astore, Kalam, Kalat, and Srinagar at -05°C.
The weather forecast is crucial for citizens to plan their daily activities, especially in regions affected by dense fog and smog. Authorities recommend taking necessary precautions during these conditions.
Lahore, A solemn prayer ceremony to usher in the New Year was held at the court of Data Ali Hajwiri in Lahore. This event was attended by high-ranking officials including the Caretaker Minister of Information and Public Relations, Culture and Tourism of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Barrister Feroz Jamal Shah Kakakhel, along with Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi and members of the Punjab Provincial Caretaker Cabinet.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the officials visited the shrine, laid wreaths, and recited Fatiha. The ceremony was marked by special prayers focusing on various national concerns. The attendees prayed for economic stability, relief from poverty, sustainable peace, unity, and harmony within the country. Additionally, prayers were offered for the martyrs, the determination and morale of the armed forces, police, and other security agencies. The ceremony also included prayers for the freedom and success of the Palestinians and Kashmiris.
Barrister Firoz Jamal Shah Kakakhel expressed his views during the ceremony, highlighting the significant role of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh in history and Sufism. He appreciated the initiative of the caretaker government of Punjab in organizing this event, noting that it provided an opportunity to pray for the country’s development and begin the New Year in alignment with Islamic values. The ceremony was also marked by a gesture of goodwill, with Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi presenting a special chador to Minister Kakakhel, acknowledging his participation in the prayer ceremony.