ISLAMABAD: A significant surge in cold weather is forecasted to affect the entire nation in the coming days, as a harsh cold wave is set to engulf most regions.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) predicts a sharp temperature drop across all four provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan and other northern areas, intensifying the already prevailing cold conditions.
In its warning, the NDMA reported ongoing extreme cold in Gilgit-Baltistan and alerted that freezing temperatures are expected in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Balochistan, and the Potohar region.
The authority cautioned that areas such as Quetta, Ziarat, and Kalat might experience even lower temperatures, heightening the risk of respiratory ailments and potential crop damage.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) indicated that fog levels are likely to worsen in the plains of Punjab and upper Sindh, which could disrupt routine activities and cause traffic difficulties.
In Karachi, PMD has advised residents to brace for colder weather as northeasterly winds sweep through the city. The minimum temperature could dip to 10–11 degrees Celsius from Thursday night onward. Over the weekend, single-digit temperatures are anticipated, with lows potentially hitting 9 degrees Celsius during Saturday and Sunday nights.
As of recent recordings, Leh registered the nation’s coldest temperature on Wednesday at minus 11 degrees Celsius. Ziarat followed with minus 9 degrees, Astore recorded minus 8, while Kalat and Kalam reported minus 7 degrees Celsius. Skardu recorded minus 6, Gupis minus 5, and several other places—Hunza, Malam Jabba, Parachinar, Quetta, and Nathia Gali—observed a low of minus 4 degrees Celsius.
Both the NDMA and PMD have urged citizens to take necessary precautions, including wearing appropriate winter clothing and giving extra care to children, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing health issues to mitigate the effects of severe cold weather.
