Severe Cold Wave Pakistan 2026: Schools Closed in Northern Areas Amid Forecast of Heavy Rain and Snow
Overview of the Severe Cold Wave Across Pakistan
Pakistan is experiencing a severe cold wave, with weather authorities forecasting heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hail, and snow in various regions from January 25 to 27, 2026. The Met Office has highlighted that northern and high-altitude areas, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, will face extreme snowfall and plummeting temperatures.
Severe Cold Wave Pakistan 2026
Heavy snow, rainfall, and extreme temperatures affecting northern regions and Punjab
Heavy snow in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, Mansehra, Kaghan Valley.
- Road closures and travel disruptions
- Rescue operations ongoing in Tirah Valley
- Residents advised to stay indoors
Sub-zero temperatures in Balochistan and northern Pakistan.
- Quetta -5°C, Ziarat -8°C, Qalat -7°C
- Lahore 3–12°C, Karachi 8–15°C
- Cold winds increasing chill factor
Schools closed in northern districts and Azad Kashmir until January 26, 2026.
- Closure for student safety
- Monitoring of reopening conditions
- Public advised to follow advisories
Rescue teams and army assisting stranded residents.
- Evacuation of hundreds of people in snow-bound areas
- Relocation of 100+ vehicles to safe areas
- Continuous monitoring by authorities
Lahore: Rain & thunderstorms; Islamabad: Cold with rain; Karachi: Cold winds.
- Lahore 3–12°C, Islamabad 3–10°C
- Reduction in fog and air pollution
- Residents advised to stay warm
Authorities issue public guidance and set up emergency shelters.
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Ensure heating and winter preparedness
- Follow government alerts and advisories
Authorities have warned citizens to prepare for disruptions in daily life, including road closures, power outages, and travel delays. Residents are advised to follow official safety guidelines and avoid unnecessary movement, particularly in snow-affected regions.
Weather Forecast for Punjab and Major Cities
In Punjab, Lahore is expected to witness thunderstorms and rainfall on January 26 and 27, which will increase the intensity of the cold while reducing fog and air pollution. Current temperatures range between 3°C and 12°C, with humidity levels recorded between 83% and 91%. Cool winds are contributing to the chilling conditions across the city.
Islamabad is also under a severe cold spell, with night temperatures dropping to around 3°C and rainfall predicted on January 26. Karachi, meanwhile, is experiencing cold winds, with temperatures hovering near 8°C. Despite the chill, the air quality in Karachi is showing signs of improvement.
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Northern and Upper Regions: Heavy Snowfall and Road Closures
Northern Pakistan and high-altitude regions are facing significant snowfall, affecting Mansehra, Kaghan Valley, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. The accumulation of snow has led to the closure of several main highways, limiting access for tourists and local traffic.
Authorities report that rescue operations are ongoing in regions such as Tirah Valley, where hundreds of people were temporarily stranded due to heavy snowfall. Over 100 vehicles have been relocated to safe areas, ensuring residents’ safety amid harsh weather conditions.
Key Snowfall Areas:
- Mansehra & Kaghan Valley: Road closures due to multiple feet of snow.
- Tirah Valley: Hundreds of residents rescued; temporary isolation due to snowfall.
- Azad Kashmir highlands: Continuous snowfall impacting daily life.
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Impact on Daily Life and Safety Measures
Due to the extreme cold, schools in northern areas and Azad Kashmir will remain closed for two days. Citizens are advised to avoid travel, particularly to mountainous areas prone to avalanches.
Authorities have implemented several measures to ensure public safety:
- Setting up emergency shelters and temporary aid stations.
- Deploying rescue teams in vulnerable areas.
- Continuous monitoring of avalanche-prone zones.
These steps aim to minimize accidents and provide assistance to affected communities.
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Temperature Extremes in Balochistan and Northern Areas
Northern and northern Balochistan regions are experiencing sub-zero temperatures, with Quetta recording -5°C, Qalat -7°C, Ziarat -8°C, and Zhob -2°C. Most districts of Balochistan have dry and cold weather, while northern districts face intermittent snowfall and icy conditions.
The chilling temperatures have impacted transportation and daily activities. Residents are encouraged to use heating devices safely and limit outdoor exposure to avoid health risks associated with extreme cold.
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Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
The Pakistan Army, rescue teams, and district authorities have been actively helping stranded residents. In areas like Tirah Valley, hundreds of people were evacuated safely, and over 100 vehicles were relocated to secure locations.
Authorities continue to coordinate efforts to clear snow-blocked roads and assist tourists and locals in remote regions. Residents are urged to remain updated on weather alerts and cooperate with rescue teams during emergencies.
Emergency Response Highlights:
- Rescue operations in snow-bound areas.
- Relocation of stranded individuals and vehicles.
- Continuous monitoring via local administration and meteorological departments.
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Government Advisory and Public Safety Alerts
Educational institutions in northern districts and Azad Kashmir will reopen on January 26, 2026. Authorities continue to provide guidance on safe travel, particularly for those living in mountainous and snow-prone areas.
Citizens are advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel to snow-affected regions.
- Follow local government alerts and advisories.
- Ensure proper heating and winter preparedness at homes.
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Future Weather Predictions and Precautions
Meteorologists predict that snowfall will continue in northern regions over the next two days, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and northern Balochistan. The possibility of avalanches remains high, and temperatures are expected to drop further.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for sustained cold conditions and ensure sufficient supplies of food, fuel, and medical necessities. Avoiding travel during heavy snow and following emergency guidelines will help prevent accidents and fatalities.
Temperature Forecast Table for Key Cities:
| City/Region | Minimum Temp (°C) | Maximum Temp (°C) | Weather Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lahore | 3 | 12 | Rain/Thunderstorms |
| Islamabad | 3 | 10 | Cold with chance of rain |
| Karachi | 8 | 15 | Cold winds |
| Quetta | -5 | 4 | Cold and dry |
| Ziarat | -8 | 2 | Snowfall |
| Tirah Valley | -2 | 3 | Heavy snow, road closures |
FAQs About the Cold Wave
What areas are most affected by the cold wave in Pakistan?
Northern Pakistan, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern Balochistan are facing severe cold and snowfall.
Are schools closed due to the severe cold?
Yes, schools in Azad Kashmir and northern districts will remain closed until January 26, 2026.
Is it safe to travel in snow-affected regions?
Travel is not recommended in mountainous and snow-covered areas until roads are cleared and safety is confirmed.
How can residents stay updated about weather alerts?
Citizens should follow local meteorological updates, government advisories, and district administration notifications for real-time alerts.
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