As the temperature drops to -17 degrees Celsius and mountains covered in snow in Kumrat, tourist rushes towards the valley to enjoy the scenic views.
As the situation deteriorates in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the National Weather Forecasting Centre (NWFC) stated that the westerly wave will keep on affecting the upper parts of Pakistan.
The temperature in Malam Jabba dropped to -7°C, Parachinar and Gupis, -6°C in Bagrote, -5°C in Kalam and Rawalakot, -3°C in Murree and Skardu, and -1°C in Quetta.
Kumrat Valley and surrounding areas, including Jahaz Banda, Badgoi, Lowari Tunnel, Kalpani, Shahi Ban Shahi, Lajbok, Ushairai, Dara Tor, Mang Dara and Laram were hit by heavy snowfall with feets high snow.
National Weather Forecasting Centre has issued an alert, stating that snowfall could close roads and traffic across northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy snowfall has affected road access in South Waziristan, Orakzai, Lower Dir and Upper Dir districts.
Authorities reported 37 inches of snowfall in Malam Jabba, seven inches in Kalam and five inches in Parachinar, Kumrat valley.
Traffic on the Kaghan Highway and in the Paras area has been suspended due to landslides.
In the Galiyat region, snowfall of up to one foot has confined residents to their homes. Authorities have advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel.
Several roads in Upper Dir District, including Kumrat Valley, are closed, whereas authorities have managed to keep some roads open.
Tourists travelling to the valley should first check the social media handles of the concerned authorities to avoid any unfortunate incident.
Murree Expressway reopens after heavy snowfall
The Murree Expressway along with all other entry routes leading to Murree were reopened for traffic, after they were closed temporarily because of heavy snowfall last week.
The routes were closed due to precautionary purposes to maintain the safety of travellers and residents due to extreme weather conditions. Authorities took this step to avoid accidents and control the flow of vehicles in the thick snow.
According to the Traffic Police, the Murree Expressway is now open for tourists despite the continuous severe cold weather.
A spokesperson for the City Traffic Police Murree said that traffic men in the field are fully active and are performing their duty with dedication, despite extreme weather conditions. Officers are posted at different points to ease the flow of traffic and assist the visitors.
