The recent, almost apocalyptic weather phenomena in Islamabad and Lahore, from blinding dust storms to freak hailstorms and pitch-black skies at midday, are not just unusual events. They are symptoms of a worsening climate crisis that Pakistan can no longer afford to ignore.
In past days, residents of Islamabad witnessed sudden darkness at noon, followed by a violent storm. Lahore experienced similar conditions earlier. These events disrupted daily life, caused property damage, and triggered widespread panic. While some may label this as strange weather, scientists and environmentalists recognise it as a clear sign of accelerating climate instability.
According to the Germanwatch Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan has been ranked as the country most vulnerable to climate change. We have already seen the devastating effects in recent years of the catastrophic floods of 2022 to prolonged droughts, record-breaking heatwaves, and now these erratic weather shifts. Urban centres are especially vulnerable due to poor air quality, unchecked urbanisation, and weak disaster preparedness.
Unfortunately, despite mounting evidence, public awareness and government response remain insufficient. It is high time for both policymakers and the general public to wake up. We need comprehensive climate education, stricter enforcement of environmental laws, investment in green infrastructure, and urban planning that accounts for changing weather patterns. Civil society, media, and educational institutions must play a greater role in raising awareness and shaping climate-resilient mindsets.
Jawad Hussain Mallah
Lahore
