Smog levels are expected to rise as air quality worsens in several parts of the country, particularly Lahore, in the coming days, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned, urging authorities concerned to implement precautionary measures.

According to the Met Office’s most recent advisory, steady weather is likely to trap air pollution and dense smog may cover eastern Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar and Khanpur amid calm winds, low temperatures and high humidity that hinder the dispersal of these pollutants.

Smog, which is a combination of smoke and fog, usually arises between November and mid-December, according to the department. With dry and stable conditions currently prevailing, the likelihood of heavy smog over major cities has increased, the PMD warned.

It also said a combination of vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions and stagnant weather patterns could push air pollution to dangerous levels, endangering the ecosystem and public health.

According to the advisory, rising smog may result in more cases of respiratory infections, asthma and other pollution-related illnesses, particularly affecting children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions.

The PMD also cautioned that smog-induced poor visibility could cause traffic jams and a rise in traffic accidents, and that in the coming days, outdoor activities could be disrupted.