Dense fog blanketed Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Friday morning, severely disrupting daily life and transport across the twin cities. Visibility dropped to as low as 25 metres in several localities during early hours, creating hazardous conditions for commuters. Although visibility gradually improved after sunrise, routine activities remained affected well into the day.

Islamabad International Airport was also impacted, with fog persisting between 5am and 8am, causing operational difficulties. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the ongoing cold wave accompanied by fog is expected to continue across the region, including the twin cities, at least through Saturday. Officials noted that while conditions may slowly ease by the end of the week, mornings and late nights will likely remain foggy.

The Met Office said continental air is prevailing over most parts of the country, resulting in cold and dry weather. Plain areas of Punjab, upper Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to experience moderate to dense fog, while upper hilly regions will remain extremely cold during night and early morning hours. No rainfall is forecast in the coming days.

Minimum temperatures in Rawalpindi and Islamabad were recorded at four degrees Celsius, with officials warning that temperatures could drop to as low as one degree Celsius over the next few days. The cold wave has further worsened living conditions, particularly as residents in many areas continue to face low gas pressure.

Hospitals in the twin cities have reported a sharp rise in cold related illnesses. Doctors say elderly people and children are most vulnerable, with daily patient inflow increasing significantly. Medical professionals have advised residents to stay warm, cover their heads and ears, and increase fluid intake to cope with the dry cold.

Dense fog also disrupted rail traffic, with trains from Karachi and Lahore arriving late due to reduced visibility. Meanwhile, the Motorway Police issued safety advisories, urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, maintain lane discipline, reduce speed and use fog lights. Citizens were advised to prefer daytime travel between 10am and 6pm and contact the Motorway Police helpline 130 for assistance.