Cold and Dry Weather Across Pakistan, Snowfall in Northern Areas

News Desk

Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that cold and dry weather will persist across most plain areas of the country on Wednesday, while northern regions, including parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, are expected to experience cloudy weather accompanied by rain, wind, and snowfall.

A shallow westerly wave currently affecting the western and upper parts of the country is contributing to these weather conditions, particularly in the hilly regions.

In the past 24 hours, cold and dry conditions prevailed across most of the country, with very cold weather in the mountainous areas. Shallow to moderate fog was observed in isolated parts of northeastern Punjab.

The lowest minimum temperatures recorded were Leh at -11°C, Skardu at -10°C, Astore and Gupis at -9°C, Hunza at -6°C, Gilgit and Bagrote at -5°C, and Kalam at -4°C.

Looking ahead, the PMD expects the continuation of cold and dry weather for the plains on Thursday, while northern and hilly areas remain under the influence of the westerly wave, with light rain and snowfall likely.

In particular, regions like upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan may see more precipitation, while light drizzle could continue in the Potohar region.

In terms of rainfall, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa recorded 11mm in Dir, 9mm in Chitral and Mirkhani, 8mm in Kalam, 6mm in Drosh, 3mm in Malam Jabba, 2mm in Kakul, and 1mm in Saidu Sharif. Snowfall in Kalam reached 4 inches.

The PMD has issued a warning for northern and hilly areas, urging residents to prepare for extreme cold and caution while traveling due to the potential for snowfall.