Record-Breaking Cold Grips Gilgit-Baltistan, Intensifying Winter Hardships
This year, Gilgit-Baltistan has experienced record-breaking cold, with temperatures plummeting to levels not seen in over a decade. According to the meteorological department, the average minimum temperature in Gilgit has dropped to -8°C, a stark decline from -3°C recorded ten years ago. In Skardu, the situation is even more severe, with average temperatures plunging to -11°C, marking an alarming 8°C decrease over the past decade.
Read More: Lahore’s Temperature to Drop: Severe Cold Expected
Harsh Conditions and Precautions
Experts warn that the cold is expected to worsen further, posing challenges to daily life in the region. Residents are urged to take precautionary measures to safeguard themselves against the increasingly harsh winter.
Weather Patterns and Forecasts
Meteorologists attribute the extreme cold to the prevalence of continental air over most parts of the country. The forecast for Wednesday and Thursday suggests mainly cold and dry weather across most regions, with very cold conditions persisting in hilly areas. Key highlights include:
- Smog/Fog: Patchy smog or fog is likely to persist in the plains of Punjab, upper/central Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during night and morning hours.
- Rain/Snowfall: Light rain or snowfall is expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir on Thursday evening and night.
- Frost Warning: Frost may occur at isolated places in the Pothohar region during the morning.
Recent Temperature Observations
The last 24 hours saw predominantly cold and dry weather across the country, with extremely low temperatures in hilly regions. Leh recorded the lowest minimum temperature at -13°C, followed by:
- Skardu: -11°C
- Astore and Gupis: -8°C
- Gilgit: -7°C
- Quetta and Ziarat: -6°C
- Hunza, Bagrote, and Dir: -5°C
Advisory
Residents, especially those in affected areas, are advised to stay prepared for further dips in temperature, ensure adequate heating arrangements, and exercise caution during foggy conditions.
