Severe Cold Wave Grips Balochistan; Northern Pakistan Faces Chill and Light Snowfall
Quetta, Balochistan — A severe cold wave has firmly settled over Balochistan, as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warns of extremely low temperatures and dry conditions affecting most districts across the province. Northern regions are expected to witness the most significant temperature drops during night and early morning hours, while the surrounding hills may experience isolated snowfall and rainfall.
In Quetta and adjoining north-western districts, cloudy skies dominate, with reports of light snow and rain in areas including Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, and Qila Saifullah. Meteorologists cautioned that these weather patterns could intensify the cold wave in mountainous regions, urging residents and travelers to exercise vigilance and take necessary precautions.
Early Saturday morning, temperatures plummeted sharply across several areas: Quetta recorded a minimum of 0°C, Kalat and Ziarat saw –2°C, Zhob dropped to 3°C, Sibi registered 9°C, Turbat 14°C, Nokundi 9°C, and Chaman 4°C. Coastal districts experienced milder conditions, with Gwadar at 18°C and Jiwani at 12°C.
Authorities emphasized the importance of protective measures, particularly for those living at higher altitudes. Residents are advised to wear warm clothing, ensure proper care for children and the elderly, and remain cautious during nighttime hours as low temperatures are expected to persist.
In Punjab, Lahore experienced cold and dry weather on Saturday, with similar conditions forecasted for Monday. The continental air mass dominating most parts of the country, combined with a shallow westerly wave affecting upper regions, is contributing to the chilly conditions.
The PMD also predicted partly cloudy skies for Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, northern Balochistan, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, smog and patchy fog are expected to continue during night and morning hours across the plains of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, further intensifying the cold and discomfort for residents in these areas.
Authorities continue to urge vigilance and preparedness as Pakistan faces widespread cold conditions, particularly in northern and high-altitude regions, where temperatures are expected to remain exceptionally low over the coming days
