The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released a fresh and detailed forecast, indicating a strong likelihood that the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijri will begin on Thursday, 19 February 2026 across Pakistan. The forecast is based on astronomical calculations and favorable weather conditions for moon sighting in various regions of the country.
According to PMD officials, the Ramadan moon is expected to be sighted on the evening of Wednesday, 18 February 2026, as skies across most areas are likely to remain clear to partly cloudy. The Climate Data Processing Center of PMD noted that the new moon will be born on 17 February at 5:01 pm, which significantly strengthens the chances of sighting the moon the following evening.
Region-specific last visibility timings for the moon sighting on 18 February have also been provided by PMD:
- Azad Jammu & Kashmir: 6:58 pm
- Gilgit-Baltistan: 6:53 pm
- Punjab: 7:08 pm
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 7:13 pm
- Sindh: 7:24 pm
- Balochistan: 7:47 pm
Officials explained that if weather conditions remain stable, particularly in the southern and western parts of the country, the probability of sighting the moon will be very high. These latest forecasts align closely with earlier predictions issued on 5 January, which also suggested that Ramadan will likely begin on 19 February, with Eid-ul-Fitr expected on 21 March 2026.
Backing the scientific forecasts, Khalid Ijaz Mufti, Secretary General of the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, stated that astronomical calculations point toward 19 February as the most probable day for observing the first fast. However, he emphasized that the final announcement will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which follows verified religious testimonies in accordance with Islamic law.
As Pakistan prepares for the sacred month, anticipation is building nationwide. Citizens and authorities are keeping a close watch on the evening of 18 February, awaiting confirmation of the moon sighting. If confirmed, the nation will welcome Ramadan with prayers, spiritual reflection, and the traditional practices that mark the beginning of this holy month.
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