Severe Cold Wave Alert Issued for Pakistan: Rain, Snowfall, and Temperature Drop Expected This Week

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning of an intense cold wave expected to hit the country this week. Starting from December 7, westerly winds will enter the region, leading to a temperature drop of 4 to 6 degrees Celsius across most parts of the country.

1. Significant Drop in Temperature

• Northern and Hilly Regions: Strong winds, thunderstorms, rain, and snowfall are forecast for mountainous areas.
• Balochistan: Certain areas are likely to experience sub-zero temperatures, dropping as low as -3°C to -5°C.

2. Weather Forecast (December 7 to December 14)

• Temperature Drop: Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir will experience temperatures 4 to 6 degrees Celsius lower than normal.
• Karachi: The city recorded a minimum temperature of 12°C, marking the arrival of colder weather. Nights are expected to remain chilly with dry weather prevailing.
• Rain and Snowfall Alerts:
  • December 7-11: Rain and snowfall are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Buner, Shangla, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Astore, Ghizer, Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, and Neelum Valley.
  • December 7-8: Rain is predicted for Murree, Galiyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sialkot, and Hafizabad, while snowfall is expected in surrounding hilly areas.

3. Alerts for Farmers and Tourists

• Farmers: The PMD has advised farmers to adjust their agricultural activities according to the weather forecast. It is recommended to avoid outdoor work during late-night and early-morning hours due to the severe cold.
• Tourists and Travelers: Travelers heading to northern areas, especially Murree and Galiyat, are advised to exercise caution as snowfall may affect road conditions and increase traffic congestion.

4. Administrative Measures

• Murree: To manage traffic during snowfall, additional police personnel and traffic police have been deployed at the hill station.
• Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA): The PDMA has provided rescue and relief equipment, including search-and-rescue jackets, to assist in emergency situations.

Advice for the Public

• Stay Warm: Ensure proper clothing, especially for children and the elderly, to avoid cold-related health issues.
• Travel Caution: Check the weather forecast before traveling to hilly regions, especially areas with expected snowfall.
• Agricultural Precautions: Farmers should take preventive measures to protect their crops from frost and waterlogging.

The cold wave is expected to disrupt daily life in several regions due to snowfall and rain. Citizens, travelers, and farmers are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and take appropriate precautions.