A cold wave has gripped Pakistan following widespread rain and snowfall, particularly in the northern regions. Areas such as Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witnessed heavy rainfall and strong winds, while mountainous areas are now covered in snow. The snowfall in Naran has caused road closures and restrictions on tourist access, marking the end of the tourist season there.
Rain and snowfall are expected to continue in northern Balochistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and the Pothohar region, accompanied by thunderstorms. Scenic valleys blanketed in snow have signaled the onset of winter, drawing attention to their picturesque beauty.
Balochistan reported rainfall in Ziarat, Pishin, Zhob, Sherani, Musa Khel, Barkhan, and Khuzdar, while cold winds from the province have impacted Sindh, bringing rain to Jacobabad and Qambar Shahdadkot. Temperatures in northern areas have dropped significantly, with Skardu recording -6°C.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts additional rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall in the mountains of northern Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and Pothohar. Fog and smog are also anticipated in parts of Punjab and upper Sindh. Light rain has been observed in Chiniot, Sialkot, Ali Pur, and surrounding areas of Punjab.
Air Quality Concerns:
Multan recorded the worst air quality in Pakistan today with an AQI of 287, followed by Lahore (AQI 217) and Karachi (AQI 208), raising health concerns in these cities.