Web Desk (MNN); Continuous rainfall in the plains and heavy snowfall in the upper regions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir have severely affected daily life, cutting off several mountainous areas. The capital and surrounding areas are experiencing steady rain, while major routes including Pir Chinasi, Upper Neelum, Leepa Valley, Sudhan Gali, Lissdnha, and Mahmood Gali remain closed, halting normal activities.
Officials reported that electricity and communication networks have been badly affected, leaving residents stranded, particularly in Leepa Valley, where people are confined to their homes. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said four houses were completely destroyed, eight partially damaged, and a total of 52 homes affected by the ongoing snowfall. Road-clearing machinery has been deployed, with operations expected to intensify as the weather improves.
The persistent westerly wave is causing cold weather across northern Pakistan. The National Weather Forecasting Centre (NWFC) recorded temperatures as low as -7°C in Leh, Malam Jabba, Parachinar, and Gupis; -6°C in Bagrote and Kalam; and -5°C in Astore and Rawalakot. Intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall are expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, with isolated heavy rain and snow in some areas.
Tourists have been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel in Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli. Landslides and avalanches may occur in hilly areas. The National Highways and Motorways Police (NHMP) warned commuters on the Murree Expressway (N-75) to travel carefully.
Forecast for Karachi: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts cold and dry weather in Karachi, with temperatures likely to drop to 9°C. The city recorded a minimum of 12°C today, with humidity at 47% and easterly winds blowing at 8 km/h.
