Widespread snowfall has gripped northern Pakistan, with Murree, Galiyat, Swat, Dir, Neelum Valley, and Baltistan witnessing intense winter conditions that have both delighted tourists and disrupted daily life.
Snowfall has continued for 17 hours in Murree, with seven to eight inches recorded so far. The fresh snow has intensified the cold, covering roads, rooftops, and hills in white.
Despite the chill, a large number of tourists thronged Mall Road, with hotels, restaurants, and cafes filled to capacity. Visitors were seen enjoying the weather at Mall Road and other recreational spots.
Administration on alert, traffic advisories issued
The district administration and service institutions remain active in the field. Authorities have advised motorists to drive carefully due to slippery roads caused by snowfall.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab, all roads in Murree are currently clear, and traffic flow remains uninterrupted. Tourists have been instructed to use snow chains, and vehicles without chains are banned from entering Murree, said PDMA DG Irfan Kathia.
More rain and snowfall expected in Murree, Galiyat
The PDMA reported that intermittent snowfall has continued since last night, with more rain and snowfall expected in Murree and Galiyat over the next 1 to 3 hours. Heavy rain and snowfall are also predicted during the next 24 hours, increasing the risk of slippery roads.
Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow safety guidelines.
Heavy snowfall hits Mansehra, Kaghan, Naran
In Mansehra, heavy snowfall continues intermittently at tourist spots, including Shogran, Kaghan, and Naran. More than three feet of snow has accumulated near Shogran Bazaar, while over half a foot has fallen in Kaghan Bazaar.
Machinery of the Kaghan Development Authority and National Highway Authority remains busy clearing snow from roads, including the Kaghan Highway. Authorities have urged citizens to take precautionary measures while traveling.
Snowfall has continued in various areas of Qila Abdullah since yesterday, blanketing the entire region. Normal life has been paralyzed, with residents confined to their homes.
Traffic on the Quetta–Chaman highway has been affected, while routes to Toba Achakzai and surrounding areas remain completely closed.
Tourists flock to Malam Jabba
Intermittent snowfall continues in the upper areas of Swat for the second consecutive day. A large number of tourists are arriving in Malam Jabba, enjoying scenic views and snowy roads.
Visitors praised the beauty of the valley, calling it an ideal winter destination.
In Dir, the second snowfall of winter has hit the city, while the upper areas, including Lowari, Kumrat, Dog Darra, Brawal, and Zakhna, are experiencing the fourth spell. Snowfall measurements include 10 inches in Lowari Tunnel, one foot at Lowari Top, and seven inches in Kumrat.
Traffic between Chitral and Dir has been restored via the Lowari Tunnel, though the use of snow chains remains mandatory.
Ghizer roads closed as snowfall continues
Snowfall persists in Ghizer and surrounding areas, forcing the closure of connecting roads in upper regions. Residents are facing difficulties due to blocked routes.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast continued snowfall in the area over the next 24 hours.
Neelum Valley faces power outages, communication breakdown
Heavy snowfall has affected life in Neelum Valley, particularly in upper areas and tourist destinations. Land communication has been cut off, while around 200,000 to 300,000 people have been deprived of electricity due to damaged power lines.
Mobile and internet services are also suspended in many areas, further increasing hardships amid severe cold.
Snowfall continues across Skardu and the Baltistan division. Land communication has been affected, private transport services suspended, and residents in upper areas remain trapped in their homes.
Authorities urge caution
Officials across regions have urged tourists and locals to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and cooperate with authorities. While the snowfall has turned northern Pakistan into a winter spectacle, it continues to pose serious challenges for mobility and essential services.
