The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that the crescent moon for Jumada al-Awwal 1447 AH is likely to be visible on Thursday evening, October 23, in several regions of the country.
According to the PMD, the new moon will be visible at 5:25 PM on October 21. On October 23, sunset will occur at 5:58 PM, and the moon will set at 6:54 PM, providing approximately 56 minutes for possible sighting.
The department noted that a crescent is only visible when it is at least 19 hours old and more than five degrees above the horizon at sunset—conditions expected to be met on October 23, indicating a strong chance of sighting.
If confirmed, the first day of Jumada al-Awwal will be on Friday, October 24. Clear skies are anticipated in southern and western areas such as Karachi, Gwadar, and Quetta, while cloud cover in northern regions may hinder visibility.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet after Maghrib prayers on October 23 to confirm the moon sighting, with zonal committees submitting their reports before the official announcement.