Slippery roads ahead: NDMA forecasts rain, snow for coming week

WEB DESK: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a weather advisory warning of widespread rain and snowfall across several parts of Pakistan from February 8 to 10.

According to the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), the upcoming weather system is likely to affect Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.

In Punjab, rainfall is expected to intensify on February 9 and 10, with hilly areas such as Murree and surrounding hill stations likely to see snowfall. Districts including Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sargodha, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Khushab, Jhang, Narowal, and Sialkot may also experience rainfall. The southern districts of Punjab could face hailstorms accompanied by strong winds during the spell.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain is predicted in several districts over the same period, while snowfall is expected in mountainous regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Malakand, Kurram, Waziristan, Mansehra, Mohmand, Buner, Haripur, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Karak, Bannu, and Kohat. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir are forecast to receive rain in lower areas and snow in high-altitude locations.

The NDMA cautioned that reduced visibility and traffic disruptions are likely due to rain and snowfall. Citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, follow safety precautions, and remain updated through verified sources. Authorities have been directed to stay alert for emergency response and road clearance operations to minimise risks during the weather event.

The NEOC also highlighted the importance of timely information and encouraged the public to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App for authentic updates and safety guidance.