National Emergencies Operations Center (NEOC) of NDMA has issued a weather alert regarding a strong cold wave expected to affect Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu & Kashmir over the coming days.

According to meteorological forecasts, very cold to extremely cold conditions are likely to prevail, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours, while daytime temperatures are expected to remain below normal.

The forecast indicates moderate to heavy snowfall over high-altitude and hilly areas, which may lead to disruptions in road connectivity, transportation, and power supply in mountainous regions. Adjoining plains are expected to experience cold and dry weather, with frost formation in isolated pockets.

The prevailing conditions may increase the risk of snow slides and avalanches at vulnerable locations in hilly areas, posing threats to human safety, infrastructure and livestock. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold and snowfall may also heighten health risks, especially for children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions, while frost may cause damage to standing crops and orchards in nearby plain areas.

The NDMA advised the public to avoid non-essential travel to high-altitude and snowfall-prone areas and to ensure the use of snow chains where travel is unavoidable.

The NDMA has also directed all provincial and district authorities concerned  to remain on high alert and ensure preparedness for snow clearance operations, emergency response and timely restoration of essential services, including electricity and communications.