Decade’s Worst Cold Hits Gilgit-Baltistan

News Desk
Islamabad: A severe cold wave has gripped Gilgit-Baltistan, with several areas experiencing their lowest temperatures in years as icy conditions disrupt daily life and raise concerns among residents.
According to meteorological data, temperatures in the region have dropped significantly compared to previous years. Gilgit recorded a minimum temperature of around -8°C, compared with approximately -3°C a decade ago, marking a notable decline.
Skardu has witnessed even colder conditions, with temperatures falling to around -11°C, reflecting a sharp decrease compared with past winter records.
Weather experts have warned that the cold spell may intensify in the coming days as continental air continues to dominate weather patterns across the country. Residents in northern areas have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from extreme cold.
The cold wave is not limited to Gilgit-Baltistan, as several parts of Pakistan are also experiencing dry and chilly weather.

Hilly regions are expected to remain extremely cold, while fog and smog continue to affect visibility in parts of Punjab, upper Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially during nighttime and early morning hours.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast mainly cold and dry weather across the country, with isolated fog and smog patches expected in the plains.
During the last 24 hours, some of the lowest temperatures were recorded in Leh at -13°C, Skardu at -11°C, Astore and Gupis at -8°C, Gilgit at -7°C, and Quetta and Ziarat at -6°C.
For the coming days, very cold mornings and nights are expected in mountainous regions. Light rain or snowfall is also possible in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, frost formation is expected in some areas of the Pothohar region, while fog and smog are likely to continue affecting several plain areas of the country.