NDMA Warns of Heavy Snowfall, Rain in Northern Pakistan

News Desk 

Islamabad: The National Emergencies Operations Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a weather alert warning of moderate to heavy snowfall, rain and isolated thunderstorms across northern Pakistan from January 16 to 22, due to an approaching westerly weather system.

According to NEOC, snowfall is expected in several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, Astore, Ghanche, Nagar and Ghizer. Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions such as Chitral, Swat, Kumrat, Dir, Malam Jabba, Battagram, Shangla, Kohistan, Naran, Kaghan, Galiyat and Murree are also likely to be affected.

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, snowfall and intermittent rainfall are forecast for Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Hattian Bala, Rawalakot, Bagh, Haveli and Poonch.

NEOC warned that the expected snowfall could lead to slippery road conditions, temporary road closures and reduced visibility, particularly in high-altitude and mountainous areas.

The authority also cautioned about an increased risk of avalanches, snow slides and landslides at vulnerable locations, posing threats to commuters, local communities and infrastructure. Power supply disruptions are also likely due to harsh weather conditions.

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The authority said extremely cold temperatures combined with snowfall could raise the risk of frostbite and other cold-related health issues, especially for children, elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Separately, widespread rainfall is expected in Pothohar and northeastern Punjab, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Lahore, Gujranwala and surrounding areas, from January 20 to 23.

Isolated rain and thunderstorms are also forecast in parts of Balochistan from January 21 to 22 and in Sindh, including Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur, from January 22 to 23.

In view of the forecast, NDMA advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel to high mountain passes and snowfall-prone areas and to use snow chains where travel is unavoidable.

Citizens were urged to wear warm clothing, ensure safe heating arrangements and keep children and elderly individuals indoors during extreme cold hours.

NDMA has directed provincial and district disaster management authorities to remain on high alert and ensure preparedness for snow clearance, emergency response and the timely restoration of essential services, including electricity and communication networks.

NEOC said it would continue to closely monitor the situation and issue updates as required. The public has been advised to seek weather-related information from television and radio broadcasts, official social media platforms and the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application.