The National Emergencies Operations Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority has issued a weather alert for northern Pakistan, warning of heavy snowfall and adverse conditions from January 16 to 22 due to an approaching westerly weather system.
According to NEOC, the system is expected to bring moderate to heavy snowfall, intermittent rain and isolated thunderstorms across Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir during the alert period.
Areas likely to be affected include Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, Astore, Ghanche, Nagar and Ghizer in Gilgit-Baltistan; Chitral, Swat, Kumrat, Dir, Malam Jabba, Battagram, Shangla, Kohistan, Naran, Kaghan, Galiyat and Murree in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; and Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Hattian Bala, Rawalakot, Bagh, Haveli and Poonch in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities have cautioned that heavy snowfall may lead to slippery roads, temporary closures of key routes and reduced visibility, particularly in high-altitude areas. The risk of avalanches, landslides and snow slides is also expected to increase, posing threats to travellers, local populations and infrastructure. Power outages may occur in some areas due to severe weather conditions.
NEOC further warned that extremely cold temperatures combined with snowfall could increase the risk of frostbite and other cold-related health issues, especially for children, the elderly and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
In addition, widespread rainfall is forecast across the Pothohar region and northeastern Punjab, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Faisalabad and Lahore, from January 20 to 23. Isolated rain and thunderstorms are also expected in parts of Balochistan from January 21 to 22, followed by rainfall in several districts of Sindh between January 22 and 23.
The NDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to mountainous and snowfall-prone areas and to use snow chains where travel is unavoidable. The public has also been urged to wear warm clothing, ensure proper heating arrangements and keep vulnerable individuals indoors during extreme cold spells.
Provincial and district disaster management authorities have been directed to remain on high alert, ensure readiness for snow clearance and emergency response, and facilitate the timely restoration of essential services such as electricity and communications.
NEOC said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and issue updates as needed. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official media channels, NDMA social platforms and the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application for timely and authentic information.