ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday issued a cold wave alert for Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, warning of extremely low temperatures and heavy snowfall over the coming days.
According to the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC), very cold to extremely cold conditions are expected to prevail, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours, while daytime temperatures are likely to remain below normal.
The forecast indicates moderate to heavy snowfall in high-altitude and hilly areas, which could disrupt road connectivity, transportation, and power supply in mountainous regions. NDMA warned that the prevailing conditions may increase the risk of snow slides and avalanches at vulnerable locations, posing threats to human lives, infrastructure, and livestock.
Adjoining plains are expected to experience cold, dry weather, with frost in isolated areas. The authority cautioned that prolonged exposure to extreme cold may increase health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. Frost could also damage standing crops and orchards in nearby plain areas.
NDMA advised the public to avoid non-essential travel to high-altitude and snowfall-prone areas and urged travelers to use snow chains where travel is unavoidable. Citizens were also asked to make adequate arrangements for heating, warm clothing and shelter, with special attention to vulnerable populations.
The authority directed provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure preparedness for snow-clearance operations, emergency response, and the timely restoration of essential services, including electricity and communications.
NDMA said it would continue to monitor the situation through NEOC and issue further updates as required. The public has been advised to rely on official information disseminated through television, radio, verified social media platforms, and the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application.
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