The Pakistan Meteorological Department (Met Office) has forecasted a cold wave and frost conditions across most parts of the country during the coming week, along with rain-wind/thunderstorms and snowfall in upper regions.
A westerly weather system is expected to impact the country starting December 7. Under its influence:
- A cold wave is likely to grip the country from December 8 to 14, leading to a notable drop in temperatures.
- Day temperatures are expected to fall 4–6°C below normal in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
- In Balochistan and Sindh, temperatures could plummet 5–7°C below normal, with gusty winds and frost likely to develop over plains.
Rain and Snowfall Predictions
- Moderate rain-wind/thunderstorm (with snowfall over hills): Expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Buner, Shangla, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Kohistan, Astore, Ghizer, Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, and areas of Azad Kashmir including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Kotli, Haveli, and Bagh. This will occur between December 7 (night) to December 11 (night) with occasional gaps.
- Light to moderate rain-wind/thunderstorm (with snowfall over hills): Expected in Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sialkot, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sargodha, Khushab, Faisalabad, and Jhang from December 7 (night) to December 8 (afternoon).
Possible Impacts and Advice
- Farmers should plan their activities keeping frost conditions in mind.
- Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during cold and windy conditions, especially at night and early morning.
- Tourists and travelers heading to mountainous areas should exercise caution during the period.
Authorities are advised to remain on high alert to manage any potential disruptions, particularly in northern regions. The Met Office will provide updates if there are any significant changes.
