The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) has issued a weather warning in effect until January 29, cautioning citizens about heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and the possibility of avalanches in northern and upper regions of Pakistan.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a severe cold wave is expected to persist across much of the country. Islamabad is forecasted to experience cold and dry conditions, while chilly winds will sweep across most districts of Punjab.
In Murree, snowfall has paused, but freezing temperatures will continue across the Galiyat region and surrounding areas. Sindh is expected to remain dry, though cold winds will impact coastal districts. Azad Kashmir will experience bitter cold, while Gilgit-Baltistan is likely to see partly cloudy skies in some areas.
NEOC officials stated that western weather systems are currently affecting northern and upper regions of the country. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, heavy snowfall is predicted in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with avalanche risks remaining high in the upper areas of Balochistan.
The extreme weather has already disrupted daily life in many northern areas. In Lower Chitral, an avalanche tragically claimed the lives of nine family members, with only one child surviving. In upper Azad Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Bagh, and Sudhnoti, heavy snowfall caused damage to homes, interrupted power supply, and blocked key roads.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, routes in Kaghan Valley, Upper Dir, Kumrat, Lowari Tunnel, and Shangla Top have been closed, prompting authorities to restrict tourist movement. Meanwhile, in Gilgit-Baltistan, landslides and heavy snowfall have blocked multiple sections of the Karakoram Highway, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded and cutting off access to regions like Astore. In northern Balochistan, freezing temperatures have caused water pipelines to burst, creating difficulties for local residents.
The NDMA and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have instructed all relevant departments, rescue teams, and machinery to remain on high alert. Citizens are advised to follow official weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and use the NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app for real-time guidance.
Also Read: Murree Records its Heaviest Snowfall in Two Decades
