Pakistan urges caution as smog levels remain high
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) announced on Thursday that, due to stable and dry weather conditions, smog levels in the country are expected to significantly increase in the coming days, prompting authorities to urge the public to take precautions.
"The prevailing calm wind patterns, lower temperatures, and rising humidity are creating ideal conditions for smog formation," said the department, adding smog typically develops between November and mid-December when meteorological conditions trap pollutants close to the ground, turning clear skies into a grey haze, News.Az reports citing foreign media.
The PMD said that the lack of rainfall and stagnant air will likely prevent pollutants from dispersing, leading to an accumulation of toxic particles over various cities across Pakistan, particularly in Punjab province's eastern and southern regions.
The deteriorating air quality could result in serious health implications, particularly for children, senior citizens and individuals suffering from respiratory or cardiac conditions, the PMD noted, urging citizens to limit outdoor exposure, use protective masks and keep windows closed during high pollution hours.
Also, the environmental experts have warned that the combination of vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, and crop residue burning may aggravate air pollution, causing smog to reach hazardous levels.
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