NDMA warns of heavy snowfall, extremely cold conditions in northern areas, AJK

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday warned of a cold wave for the country’s upper and northern regions, calling for precautionary measures amid forecasts of severe weather.

In a statement issued through the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC), the authority said a strong cold spell is likely to affect Gilgit-Baltistan, upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir in the coming days. The weather system is expected to bring heavy snowfall to high-altitude and hilly areas.

“Very cold to extremely cold conditions are likely to prevail, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours, while daytime temperatures are expected to remain below normal,” the statement said.

The NDMA warned that moderate to heavy snowfall in mountainous regions could disrupt road links, transport movement and power supply. It added that nearby plains are expected to remain cold and dry, with frost developing in some areas.

The authority cautioned that the prevailing conditions could increase the likelihood of snow slides and avalanches at vulnerable locations in hilly regions, posing risks to people, infrastructure and livestock.

The statement also highlighted possible health concerns, saying prolonged exposure to extreme cold and snowfall may increase health risks, particularly for children, elderly individuals and people with existing medical conditions. Frost, it added, could damage standing crops and orchards in adjoining plain areas.

Advising the public to take precautionary steps, the NDMA urged people to “avoid non-essential travel to high-altitude and snowfall-prone areas and to ensure the use of snow chains where travel is unavoidable.” It further called on citizens to “make adequate arrangements for heating, warm clothing, and shelter,” with special attention to vulnerable groups.

The authority directed provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure readiness for snow clearance, emergency response and the prompt restoration of essential services, including electricity and communication networks.