As Eid ul Fitr approaches, cold weather is expected to return across parts of Pakistan with forecasts predicting rain, hail and snowfall in several regions.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), rain and snowfall are likely to continue in northern areas until March 16.
The authority has urged the public to remain cautious, warning that the changing weather conditions could increase the risk of avalanches, landslides and travel disruptions.
In a special advisory, an NDMA spokesperson directed local administrations and relevant departments to stay prepared and maintain vigilance.
Officials warned that the new spell of rain and snowfall may also raise the risk of flooding and landslides in mountainous regions.
The NDMA further cautioned that the possibility of glacial lake outburst floods could increase during the ongoing weather system, posing additional risks to communities living in vulnerable areas.
Rain, snowfall expected in the areas
According to the forecast, rain and snowfall are likely across many parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Gilgit, Astore, Diamer, Skardu, Hunza, Ghizer, and Shigar.
Similar weather conditions are expected in several areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Poonch, Haveli, Kotli, Bhimber and Neelum Valley.
Thunderstorms likely in parts of KP
Thunderstorms are also likely in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam and Battagram.
Snowfall at higher altitudes may increase the risk of road slippage and landslides. Continuous rain and snowfall may further increase the likelihood of avalanches in mountainous areas. The NDMA also warned that these weather conditions could disrupt travel and cause temporary power outages in some areas.
Possible flash floods
In addition to rainfall, rising temperatures may increase the risk of flooding in some locations due to the bursting of glacial lakes. Authorities have also expressed concern about potential flash floods from rapid glacier melt in districts including Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Gilgit, Astore, and Skardu.
Landslides caused by rain and snowfall may also affect important mountain routes, including the Karakoram Highway. Meanwhile, landslides in areas such as Diamer, Daril, Tangir, Astore and Hunza could block roads and disrupt travel and transportation.
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