Thick smog blankets Lahore as the city's air quality deteriorates to hazardous levels, pushing its AQI above 344 and making it the world's most polluted city.

Lahore Tops Global Pollution Rankings as Smog Intensifies

1. Rain Forecast for Southern Punjab Raises Hopes of Pollution Relief

By News Desk On Nov 12, 2026

LAHORE: (Staff Reporter) – The provincial capital remained engulfed in dense smog on Thursday as air pollution reached hazardous levels, once again placing Lahore at the top of the world’s most polluted cities.

The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 344, reflecting the worsening pollution situation. Paragon City recorded an alarming AQI of 671, while Model Town reported 561, highlighting the deteriorating air quality across different neighbourhoods.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Lahore has a 10 per cent chance of receiving rainfall on Thursday. Humidity stood at 75 per cent, while wind speed was recorded at just 3 kilometres per hour.

The temperature is expected to range between 18 and 29 degrees Celsius, with the minimum likely to remain at 18 degrees and the maximum reaching 29 degrees.

Meanwhile, meteorologists have predicted rainfall in several areas of southern Punjab over the next two to three days. The expected showers could provide some relief from persistent smog and deteriorating air quality. However, temperatures are also likely to fall after the rainfall, signalling the arrival of colder weather.

Medical experts have urged residents to limit unnecessary outdoor activities, wear protective face masks and take necessary precautions to safeguard their eyes and respiratory systems against the harmful effects of hazardous air pollution.