Snowfall and rain in Northern Pakistan have severely disrupted daily life as continuous rain and heavy snow have blocked roads, triggered landslides, caused power outages, and stranded travellers across several regions, officials and local authorities said.
Authorities have already issued multiple advisories, and a detailed Pakistan weather alert has been shared to keep residents informed about upcoming conditions and safety measures. Pakistan weather alert
Road Closures and Landslides Leave Travelers Stranded
Heavy snowfall and widespread rain triggered by a recent western weather system have severely disrupted daily life across Pakistan’s northern and upper regions, leading to blocked roads, landslides, and prolonged travel disruptions.
In Upper Dir’s Gwaldi area, a major landslide closed a key route, leaving several vehicles stranded along with dozens of passengers. Travellers remained trapped for hours, facing severe difficulties due to extreme cold and limited access to assistance.
Vehicle Accident Injures Three in Upper Dir
In the Shringal Forest Colony area of Upper Dir, a pickup vehicle skidded on a snow-covered road and plunged into a ravine. As a result, three people sustained injuries and were shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Heavy Snowfall Blocks Routes in Chitral and Upper Regions
Continuous snowfall across Upper Dir, Lower Dir, and Chitral has blocked several connecting roads, isolating remote communities and restricting access to essential supplies. In Upper Chitral, snowfall continues in Shandur, Laspur, and Yarkhun, while light snowfall has also returned to Chitral city and surrounding areas.
Despite heavy snowfall, traffic at the Lowari Tunnel remains operational due to ongoing snow clearance efforts. However, authorities have instructed drivers to use snow chains to prevent accidents.
In Swat, snowfall has persisted in Malam Jabba and upper areas since last night, while rain continues in Mingora and nearby plains, further intensifying the cold.
Power Outages and Supply Shortages Reported
Snow accumulation caused electricity poles to collapse in various parts of Lower Dir, Upper Dir, and Chitral, resulting in widespread power outages. Normal business activities have slowed significantly, with markets reporting very low footfall.
In Chitral, the severe cold has increased demand for firewood. Shortages have emerged, and residents report high prices due to limited availability, adding to daily hardships.
Multiple Areas Record Several Feet of Snow
Several upper regions, including Kumrat Valley, Jahaz Banda, Badgoi, Kalpani, Lajbok, Ashirei, Dara Toor, Mang Dara, and Laram, have recorded snowfall measuring several feet. Road closures in these areas have confined many residents to their homes.
Rain and Snow Forecast Across Punjab and Northern Areas
In Punjab, including Lahore and surrounding districts, intermittent rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected. In Murree and the Galiyat region, moderate to heavy snowfall is ongoing, with snow accumulation reaching up to 6 to 7 inches, while further snowfall is forecast over the next 24 hours.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have urged citizens to adopt precautionary measures and avoid unnecessary travel to snowbound regions. Emergency teams remain on alert as unstable weather conditions persist.