Cold wave intensifies after rain and snow

A severe cold wave has gripped large parts of Pakistan following widespread rain and snowfall on Thursday.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, a strong weather system brought rain, snow, and cold winds to all provinces and northern regions, significantly lowering temperatures and disrupting normal life in several areas. Heavy snowfall and rain were reported in Naran, Kaghan, Murree, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Galiyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, Haveli, and Rawalakot. As a result, road conditions worsened in many hilly regions, while visibility also dropped due to ongoing snowfall.

Meanwhile, intermittent rain and thunderstorms continued in major cities, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. At the same time, most districts of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa received rain and snow, while cold and cloudy conditions prevailed in Sindh. Light rainfall was recorded in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana, increasing the chill due to strong winds.

The Meteorological Department stated that a powerful westerly system remains active and is likely to affect upper and central parts of the country. Therefore, more rain, thundershowers, and snowfall are expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, and upper Punjab. During the past 24 hours, Parachinar recorded 88 mm of rain, while Jacobabad and Sukkur received 10 mm each. Kalam, Quetta, and Parachinar also received up to two inches of snowfall.

Extremely low temperatures were recorded in Leh and Skardu, adding to weather-related challenges. In response, the NDMA urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, use snow chains where required, and ensure proper heating and warm clothing. Authorities also advised special care for vulnerable groups and called on people to follow local safety instructions strictly.