Severe cold wave sweeps Pakistan, disrupting life northern areas

A harsh cold wave continues to grip Pakistan, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall affecting the northern regions.

According to the Meteorological Department, intermittent snowfall has blanketed Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and mountainous areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pushing temperatures below freezing. Rivers, waterfalls, and lakes have frozen, creating stunning but challenging conditions.

In Neelum Valley, heavy snowfall and rain have confined residents to their homes, causing food and medicine shortages. Daily life has been disrupted across the region.

Extreme temperatures were recorded in several areas, including -10°C in Kalat, -9°C in Ziarat, and -7°C in both Gopis and Quetta. Leh recorded -5°C, while Astore registered -4°C.

Motorways Closed Due to Fog

The severe weather has also impacted road travel. Dense fog has drastically reduced visibility on the national highways, forcing the closure of several motorway sections.

According to a Motorway Police spokesperson, sections M-2 (Lahore to Kot Momin), M-3 (Lahore to Abdul Hakeem), M-4 (Pindi Bhattian to Faisalabad), and M-11 (Lahore to Sialkot) have been closed for safety reasons.

Residents are advised to stay cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during these extreme conditions.