A cold wave has gripped Diamer and surrounding areas as intermittent snowfall continues at popular tourist destinations, including Babusar Top, Nanga Parbat and Bhutogah Top.
Police said the Babusar Highway had been temporarily closed to traffic due to heavy snowfall, affecting access for commuters and tourists travelling through the mountainous region.
Intermittent rain in Chilas city and nearby areas has also caused temperatures to drop, bringing colder weather to the region. At Babusar Top, temperatures have fallen below freezing point, prompting the temporary closure of the Babusar-Naran Highway.
The local administration and relevant departments have urged travellers to take precautionary measures and check the latest road conditions and traffic updates before setting out. Tourists planning to visit the area have been advised to confirm the highway’s reopening before beginning their journeys.
Heavy rain in Swat
Meanwhile, heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning has lashed the plains of Mingora, bringing a cold wave to the city.
The Meteorological Office has forecast further heavy rain in the area over the next 24 hours, raising the likelihood of continued cold and wet weather.
Travellers and residents have been advised to remain cautious and follow updates from the relevant authorities as weather conditions continue to affect northern areas.
Earlier, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) directed district administrations across Punjab to remain alert in view of a forecast for rain in most districts.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad. Rain has also been forecast for Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Faisalabad.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa said there is a risk of landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas. In view of the situation, commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province have been directed to remain alert.
He said district administrations had also been alerted to take necessary precautionary measures in accordance with the directives of the Punjab chief minister.
The PDMA has urged citizens to take precautionary measures during bad weather and avoid staying in dilapidated or mud-built houses.
According to the PDMA director general, citizens should stay in safe places and avoid unnecessary travel in case of strong winds or storms. They have also been advised to remain indoors or in safe locations during thunderstorms and avoid going into open areas.
