Lahore has once again emerged as one of the most polluted major cities, with the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 204. The elevated pollution levels have raised concerns for residents, particularly those who are sensitive to poor air quality. The reported AQI reading was published on September 26, 2026.
Several areas across Lahore recorded higher pollution levels than the citywide reading. Paragon City reported an AQI of 271, followed by Barki Road at 227. Iqbal Town recorded 206, while DHA Phase Five reported an AQI of 203. Model Town recorded 202, while Bedian Road, Chaman Park and Askari Ten recorded AQI levels of 189, 186 and 171 respectively.
Health and environmental experts have advised residents to take precautions during periods of elevated air pollution. People who are particularly sensitive to poor air quality may need to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and monitor local air-quality updates.
Weather conditions in Lahore are also being closely watched. The temperature was reported at 28 degrees Celsius, with the maximum expected to reach 33°C. Humidity stood at 76 percent, while winds were reported at around 3 kilometres per hour.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a weather alert covering September 25 to 30, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding across several upper parts of Pakistan.
According to the alert, a westerly weather system is expected to intensify, particularly on September 25 and 26. Rain and thunderstorms are expected in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad. Mountainous areas and seasonal streams could experience sudden rises in water levels.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, Astore, Skardu, Roundu, Ghanche and Shigar have been identified as vulnerable areas. In Azad Kashmir, Neelum Valley, Haveli, Poonch and Sudhanoti are among the areas facing potential flooding risks.
Several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have also been identified as vulnerable, including Swat, Bajaur, Dir, Kohistan, Kolai-Palas, Battagram and Mansehra. The NDMA has also warned of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in parts of Potohar, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through September 30, with hailstorms possible at some locations.
The authority has directed relevant departments to remain prepared and keep emergency response teams and essential resources on standby in vulnerable areas. Residents have been advised to avoid crossing seasonal streams, mountain torrents and roads affected by floodwater, while people in low-lying areas have been urged to remain alert.
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