Cloud cover and low visibility reduce chances of crescent sighting; Eid announcement expected after Maghrib
Srinagar: Moon sighting for the upcoming Eid is highly unlikely across India on Thursday due to poor visibility conditions, according to weather updates.
Experts said there is only about a 5% chance of sighting the new moon, citing persistent cloud cover, weak crescent illumination and unfavourable timing. An official announcement on Eid is expected within an hour after Maghrib prayers.
In Pakistan, the probability of moon sighting stands slightly higher at around 20%, though visibility remains limited. Sighting is considered highly unlikely in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan, with only a faint possibility in parts of Balochistan, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The moon is expected to remain visible for about 30 minutes after sunset. While sighting may be possible with optical aid under completely clear skies, naked-eye visibility is expected to remain extremely low. Eid declaration in Pakistan is likely to be delayed, with announcements expected between 2.5 to 4 hours after Maghrib.
In Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, continuous cloud cover is likely to prevent moon sighting altogether, further reducing the chances of an early Eid confirmation.
