The Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rain and severe snowfall during tonight and on January 23 may disrupt daily life in the country’s upper regions.
According to the department, road closures, slippery conditions, and traffic disruptions are likely in Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galiyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, Haveli, and Rawalakot.
The department stated that intense rainfall and snowfall could trigger flooding in local streams across upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, while the risk of landslides and avalanches remains high in mountainous areas. Tourists have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.
On Thursday, intermittent rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, and upper and central Punjab, while snowfall is likely in mountainous regions. Some areas may experience moderate to heavy rain and snowfall.
Meanwhile, scattered rain with strong winds and thunderstorms is also expected in parts of southern Punjab, Sindh, and northern and northeastern Balochistan.
The Meteorological Department further stated that similar weather conditions, including rain and snowfall in upper regions, are likely to persist on Friday, while other parts of the country are expected to remain cold and dry.
During the past 24 hours, rain accompanied by thunderstorms and snowfall in mountainous areas was recorded at various locations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Punjab, and Sindh. The highest rainfall of 88 millimeters was recorded in Parachinar.
In Punjab, rainfall of 10 millimeters was recorded in Karor (Layyah), 9 millimeters in Bhakkar, and 6 millimeters in Dera Ghazi Khan. In Balochistan, Zhob received 10 millimeters of rain, while Jacobabad and Sukkur in Sindh also recorded 10 millimeters each. Snowfall of up to two inches was reported in Parachinar, Quetta, and Qalat.
According to temperature records, Leh recorded minus 11 degrees Celsius, while Gupis, Skardu, Bagrot, and Parachinar recorded minus 5 degrees Celsius. Kalam recorded minus 4 degrees, and Malam Jabba recorded minus 3 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Department and relevant authorities have urged citizens and travelers to take precautionary measures and strictly follow weather alerts.
