Ramazan likely to begin on February 19 in Pakistan: PMD

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that the holy month of Ramazan 1447 AH is likely to begin in Pakistan on Thursday, February 19, 2026, based on astronomical calculations and expected moon visibility.

According to the PMD, the new moon is expected to be born on February 17 at 5:01pm. Meteorologists said there is a strong likelihood that the Ramazan crescent will be sighted on the evening of February 18 in various parts of the country.

The department noted that moon-sighting conditions in coastal areas, particularly Karachi, are expected to be favourable.

On February 18, the age of the moon at sunset in Karachi is projected to be around 26 hours, exceeding the minimum age of approximately 19 hours generally considered suitable for crescent visibility.

Sunset in Karachi on that day is expected at 6:25pm, while moonset is forecast at 7:24pm, providing a visibility window of nearly one hour after sunset. Meteorologists said such conditions significantly enhance the chances of spotting the crescent with the naked eye, subject to clear weather.

Similar visibility conditions are also expected in parts of southern and central Pakistan, further strengthening the possibility of a confirmed sighting on the same evening.

If the crescent is sighted on February 18, the first fast of Ramazan will be observed across Pakistan on February 19.

However, the PMD clarified that the final decision regarding the start of Ramazan will be announced by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after verifying moon-sighting reports received from across the country, in line with established religious procedures.