A severe cold wave has tightened its grip on Pakistan’s upper regions, disrupting daily life as temperatures continue to fall sharply. Icy winds and persistent snowfall have intensified conditions, leaving many areas struggling with freezing weather.
In Skardu, temperatures dropped to a biting minus 9 degrees Celsius, marking one of the coldest spells of the season. The extreme chill has compounded the impact of ongoing snowfall in surrounding mountainous regions. As a result, routine activities have slowed significantly.
Weather officials say the latest change is driven by strong westerly winds entering hilly areas. These winds have triggered a fresh spell of rain and snowfall across higher elevations. Consequently, cold conditions have deepened across the northern belt.
Intermittent snowfall has been reported in Astore, Babusar Top, and nearby regions. These areas have seen a steady accumulation of snow, further lowering temperatures. Residents have reported increased difficulty moving between towns and villages.
Heavy snowfall has blocked several link roads, causing transport disruptions. Local communities now face challenges accessing supplies and essential services. Authorities are working to clear routes, although progress remains slow due to continued snowfall.
The Meteorological Department has warned that cold conditions are likely to persist. Forecasts indicate a strong chance of additional rain and snowfall between January 20 and January 23. Upper areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan remain particularly vulnerable.
Meanwhile, Islamabad and Kashmir are expected to experience chilly weather with partly cloudy skies over the coming week. Although temperatures there may not reach extreme lows, the cold spell is set to linger.
Dense fog has also blanketed several plain areas. Punjab, upper Sindh, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have seen reduced visibility. This has disrupted traffic flow on highways and major roads, especially during early morning hours.
Weather officials have urged the public to take precautionary measures. They advised people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in snowbound and fog-prone areas. Motorists have also been asked to remain cautious due to slippery roads and low visibility.
As winter conditions intensify, authorities continue to monitor developments closely. Residents in affected regions are encouraged to stay updated with forecasts and prepare for further temperature drops in the coming days.
