Fresh snowfall transforms Quetta’s rugged terrain into a stark winter vista as travelers move along a snow-covered road. Photo: NNI
ISLAMABAD:
As upper parts of the country grapple with severe weather conditions, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Thursday forecast rain and snowfall in several parts of the country and warned of sharp increase in cold conditions over the coming days.
According to the warning, rain and snowfall are expected on January 30 and 31 in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Met Office said that from February 1 to 3, a further intensification of cold weather is likely in most parts of the country.
The PMD said rain is expected in Quetta, Ziarat, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, Noshki and Chaman, while snowfall is likely in the surrounding hilly areas. It also warned of severe cold and heavy snowfall in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The department warned that snowfall could make roads slippery and increase the risk of landslides in hilly areas. Travelers heading to the upper reaches were advised to take precautions.
The PMD further warned that cold weather could lead to increased fog and reduced visibility and directed relevant departments to remain on high alert to respond to any emergency.
