The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of persistent cold and dry weather across Pakistan, with fog and smog likely in plain areas of Punjab until December 26. In its latest advisory, the NDMA highlighted potential health and travel hazards, urging residents to take precautions.
The Potohar region, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Attock, along with north-eastern Punjab, is expected to see cloudy weather with isolated rainfall between December 23 and 24. Meanwhile, Balochistan and Sindh will remain cold and dry from December 21 to 26.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will experience chilly conditions, with isolated rainfall and snowfall predicted in hilly areas. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are likely to face cold weather with occasional rain and snowfall over higher altitudes.
Read More: Court Imposes Heavy Fine on Indus Motors for Late Delivery
The Met Office has reported the lowest temperature at Leh (-13°C), followed by Skardu (-11°C), and other cities like Kalat and Quetta hovering around -6°C.
As temperatures dropped to 0°C in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, local hospitals have seen a surge in cold-related illnesses. Over 1,500 cases of pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma were reported in three government hospitals, including:
• Holy Family Hospital: 718 cases
• Benazir Bhutto Hospital: 421 cases
• DHQ Hospital: 400 casesDoctors have advised people to stay warm, drink soups, and cover their heads and ears to avoid health complications.
The NDMA has urged local authorities and emergency responders to remain vigilant. Travelers in northern and hilly areas are advised to exercise caution due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Residents in smog-prone regions are encouraged to limit outdoor exposure and wear protective gear during low-visibility conditions.
The Met Office also warned of fog in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh during the night and early morning hours, further exacerbating travel risks.
