The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a cold wave alert for the upper and northern regions of the country, anticipating severe winter conditions in the coming days.
Cold Wave Forecast and Expected Conditions
According to a statement from the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC), a strong cold wave is expected to impact Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The region is likely to experience moderate to heavy snowfall, particularly in high-altitude and hilly areas.
The statement highlighted that temperatures will remain very cold to extremely cold, especially during nighttime and early mornings, while daytime temperatures are forecasted to stay below normal levels.
Potential Impacts
- Heavy snowfall may disrupt road connectivity, transportation, and power supply in mountainous areas.
- Cold and dry weather with frost formation is expected in adjoining plains.
- There is an increased risk of snow slides and avalanches in vulnerable hilly locations, posing threats to safety, infrastructure, and livestock.
- Prolonged exposure to extreme cold may raise health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
- Frost could damage standing crops and orchards in nearby plains.
Advisories and Preparedness Measures
The NDMA has advised the public to avoid non-essential travel to high-altitude and snowfall-prone areas. Where travel is necessary, the use of snow chains is recommended. Citizens are urged to prepare adequate heating, warm clothing, and shelter, with special attention to vulnerable groups.
Local communities are encouraged to stay alert and follow advisories issued by local authorities. Provincial and district authorities have been directed to remain on high alert and prepare for snow clearance, emergency response, and restoration of essential services such as electricity and communications.
Monitoring and Information
The NDMA, through NEOC, will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. The public is encouraged to obtain verified information from television, radio, official social media channels, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Contrasting Meteorological Department Statement
Earlier this week, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) dismissed reports of an “extreme cold wave” between January 16 and 25, stating that temperatures are expected to remain within the normal winter range based on recent weather data analysis.
