Rain and Snow Forecast for Northern and Mountainous Areas
Pakistan’s Meteorological Department has forecast rain and snowfall in the country’s northern and mountainous regions over the coming days. Meanwhile, most other areas are expected to experience cold and dry weather.
According to the Met Office, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and surrounding mountain ranges will see partly cloudy skies with chances of light rain at scattered places. For more details on upcoming heavy rain and thunderstorms in other regions of Pakistan, see Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Expected in Parts of Pakistan. Districts such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Kurram, and Mansehra are also likely to receive showers, while snowfall is expected on higher peaks in Gilgit-Baltistan.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, weather conditions will remain partly cloudy and cold, whereas in Islamabad, Murree, Galyat, and adjoining areas, the weather is forecast to stay dry and chilly throughout the weekend.
Smog Alerts Issued for Punjab Cities
The Met Office has also warned of persistent smog across several eastern districts of Punjab due to prolonged dry weather and rising air pollution levels. The affected districts include Lahore, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalpur, and Multan.
Authorities have advised residents in these areas to take precautionary measures, such as limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks, and keeping windows closed, especially during early morning and evening hours when smog levels tend to peak.
According to environmental experts, Lahore and Faisalabad consistently rank among the most polluted cities in South Asia, with air quality often deteriorating below WHO-recommended safe limits during the winter months.
Dry and Cold Conditions to Prevail in Sindh and Balochistan
For Sindh and Balochistan, the forecast suggests dry and slightly cold weather in most districts. However, coastal areas, including Karachi and Gwadar, may experience partly cloudy skies with a mild drop in temperatures at night.
The Met Department noted that during the past 24 hours, most regions of the country recorded dry conditions, while temperatures in the northern areas have dropped sharply. In some valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the mercury has already fallen below freezing levels.
Advisory for the Public
Meteorologists recommend travelers heading toward northern or hilly areas to check weather updates regularly and carry warm clothing and emergency supplies. With snow expected on high-altitude roads, authorities have also urged caution to avoid traffic disruptions or accidents.
As Pakistan moves deeper into the winter season, the coming week is expected to bring a mix of cold, dry winds and light winter precipitation, setting the tone for the country’s early winter weather pattern.
