Rain and light snowfall have once again affected Pakistan’s upper regions, sharply intensifying cold weather across northern areas including Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
In the Galiyat, Muzaffarabad and Chilas regions, intermittent rain and snowfall caused a noticeable drop in temperatures. Snowfall was also recorded at Babusar Top, Nanga Parbat, Bhutto Gah Top, and the mountainous areas of Darel, Tangir, Niat and Gohar Abad, where snow fell in phases, blanketing peaks in white.
The Swat Valley witnessed heavy snowfall in upper areas such as Kalam, Malam Jabba, Matiltan, Paloga, Mahodand and Utror, further intensifying the cold. PMD data shows that Kalam received up to four inches of snow, while Mahodand and Paloga recorded snowfall of up to one foot, with the system still active in some areas.
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In Neelum Valley, lower regions experienced rainfall while upper areas including Sharda, Kel, Jagran Valley, Greis and Taobat continued to receive snowfall. The harsh weather disrupted routine life, prompting local administrations to advise residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel to prevent accidents.
Tourist hotspots such as Kalam and Malam Jabba attracted visitors despite the cold, with snow-covered landscapes offering scenic views. Some tourists and children were seen skating and enjoying recreational activities in the snow-laden valleys.
PMD said that during the next 24 hours, most parts of the country are likely to remain cold and dry, while severe cold conditions are expected in mountainous areas during morning and night hours. Light rain and snowfall may continue at isolated places in Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Balochistan under partly cloudy skies.
Over the past 24 hours, cold and dry weather prevailed in most regions, with temperatures dropping further in upper mountainous areas. The lowest recorded temperatures included Leh at minus 11°C, Astore at minus 7°C, Kalam and Skardu at minus 5°C, while Malam Jabba and Gupis recorded minus 4°C.
Authorities have urged citizens and travelers to wear warm clothing and adopt precautionary measures, especially while traveling to hilly and snowbound areas, as winter conditions continue to grip the region.