Weather forecast issue severe cold and snowfall alert in Pakistan. The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) has issued a weather advisory valid until January 29. Warning of heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and the risk of avalanches in northern and upper regions of the country. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, a severe cold wave is expected to continue across most parts of the country. Islamabad will experience cold and dry weather, while cold winds are expected across most districts of Punjab.
Pakistan is set to experience a sharp drop in temperatures as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a severe cold. And snowfall alert for several parts of the country. The cold wave is expected to intensify over the coming days, particularly affecting northern and western regions. According to weather officials, heavy snowfall is likely in mountainous areas including Gilgit-Baltistan. Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Murree, Galiyat, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These conditions may lead to road closures, travel disruptions, and an increased risk of landslides in hilly areas.
In Murree, snowfall has stopped, but severe cold conditions will continue in Murree, the Galiyat, and surrounding areas. Sindh is expected to remain dry, with cold winds in coastal areas. Azad Kashmir will remain extremely cold, while Gilgit-Baltistan is likely to see partly cloudy skies. NEOC stated that western weather systems are affecting upper and northern regions. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, heavy snowfall is expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir. And northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while avalanche risks persist in upper areas of Balochistan.
Cold Weather in Azad Kashmir
In upper Azad Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Bagh, and Sudhnoti, heavy snowfall damaged homes, disrupted power supply, and blocked roads. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, roads in Kaghan Valley, Upper Dir, Kumrat, Lowari Tunnel, and Shangla Top have been closed, leading authorities to restrict tourist entry. Heavy snowfall and landslides have blocked the Karakoram Highway at multiple locations, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded. Several areas, including Astore, have been completely cut off from road access. In northern Balochistan, extreme cold has frozen water pipelines, causing significant hardship for residents.
The NDMA and PDMAs have instructed all relevant departments, rescue teams, and machinery to remain on high alert. Authorities have urged the public to follow weather advisories and use the NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app for guidance and updates. Plain areas of Punjab, Islamabad, and upper Sindh are also expected to experience unusually cold temperatures, with dense fog during early morning and nighttime hours. The PMD warned that the extreme cold could pose health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions.
Disaster management authorities remain on standby to respond to any emergencies, while citizens are encouraged to stay updated through official weather advisories. The cold spell is expected to continue for several days, with temperatures remaining below normal in most parts of the country.