Rain, snow, and fog alert across Pakistan as cold wave hits North

Rain, snow, and fog alert across Pakistan as cold wave hits North

January, 19 2026

(Web Desk): Pakistan faces heavy rain, snow, and dense fog in coming days, with Skardu hitting -9°C; authorities warn of travel disruptions and harsh cold conditions.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued detailed weather forecasts warning of heavy rain, snowfall, and dense fog across multiple regions over the next few days, as a severe cold wave grips the upper parts of the country. Temperatures have plummeted, with Skardu recording a chilling low of -9°C, while icy winds and heavy snowfall continue to disrupt daily life.

According to the Met Office, western disturbances have entered the hilly regions, triggering rainfall and snowfall in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and northern Balochistan. Mountainous areas including Astore, Babusar Top, and surrounding districts have experienced intermittent snowfall, further intensifying the cold. Several link roads have been blocked, causing difficulties for local residents and travelers.

Also Read: Dense fog shuts motorways across Punjab, NHMP issues advisory

Dense fog has also been reported in the plains of Punjab, upper Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, significantly reducing visibility and causing disruptions on highways and major road networks. In Punjab, areas including Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Rahim Yar Khan are expected to experience moderate to heavy fog during morning and nighttime hours. Similarly, fog is predicted in Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, and surrounding areas of Sindh, as well as parts of Peshawar, Mardan, and D.I. Khan.

In Islamabad, Kashmir, and Murree, weather is expected to remain cold with partly cloudy skies, while Galiyat and surrounding hill stations will experience extreme cold conditions. The Meteorological Department has advised residents to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel during foggy and snowy conditions, and take preventive measures against cold-related health risks.

Weather authorities have also forecast further rain and snowfall in upper regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan from January 20 to 23, indicating that the cold wave will persist. Citizens are urged to remain updated with weather advisories to prevent accidents, traffic disruptions, and health emergencies during the harsh winter conditions.