The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, and snowfall in several parts of the country starting Monday. Authorities have warned that heavy snowfall could disrupt daily life, particularly in hilly regions, with risks of landslides and road closures increasing significantly during the period.
According to the PMD, cloudy conditions with intermittent rain and snowfall are expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, Balochistan, and upper Punjab. Rain and thunderstorms are also likely in south Punjab and upper Sindh, while mountainous areas may experience isolated heavy rainfall and moderate to intense snowfall.
The department warned that heavy snowfall between January 26 and 27 may block roads in Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli. Several districts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Noshki, Harnai, and Zhob, are also likely to be affected.
The PMD cautioned that the risk of landslides and avalanches may rise in the hilly areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Kashmir during this period. Tourists have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel, especially in snow-prone regions.
In Islamabad and adjoining areas, cold and partly cloudy weather is expected, with rain and thunderstorms likely during the evening and night. Most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will remain cold and cloudy, while rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall over hills are expected in several areas, with isolated heavy snowfall possible in upper districts during night hours.
Punjab is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions with rain and thunderstorms in central and southern districts, including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Bahawalpur. Meanwhile, Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan will remain very cold and cloudy with rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall. Authorities have urged travelers to stay updated on weather advisories and take precautionary measures.
Also read: Punjab Extends Winter Holidays Due to Extreme Weather
