The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged all provincial and local authorities to ensure preparedness ahead of an expected cold wave and widespread rain, snowfall, and landslide risks across Pakistan from December 29, 2025 to January 2, 2026. This alert comes as a westerly wave is set to enter the country, bringing hazardous weather conditions in multiple regions.
According to the authority’s advisory, the approaching westerly wave will first affect western parts of the country and then expand to upper and central regions by December 31, persisting until the morning of January 2. Under its influence, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and snowfall are forecasted, particularly in mountainous and hill areas, raising the risk of road closures and slippery conditions.
In Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain accompanied by occasional thunderstorms is expected, with districts including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Dir, Swat, Kohistan and Mansehra on alert. Meanwhile, Balochistan could witness widespread showers with thunderstorms and strong winds, especially in areas like Quetta, Zhob, Chaman, and Turbat.
Snowfall is anticipated in higher-altitude regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Neelum Valley, Murree, Skardu and Kaghan, where tourist spots are drawing visitors for scenic snow views, similar to the recent snowfall at Babusar Pass that attracted tourists this season.
The NDMA highlighted a heightened risk of landslides and avalanches in rugged areas of upper KP, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir due to the combination of rain and snow, urging disaster management authorities to be on high alert and coordinate effective response measures.
Citizens, especially travelers and residents of northern and hill regions, have been advised to take precautionary steps, avoid unnecessary travel during peak weather events, and follow updates from both the NDMA and the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
As cold wave conditions deepen nationwide, authorities stress that preparedness and public awareness are critical to reducing weather‑related risks this winter.
