Tag: snowfall

  • Pakistan mein kab aur kahan barish hogi?

    Pakistan mein kab aur kahan barish hogi?

    As per the latest forecast from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), several regions across Pakistan are on high alert as they anticipate rainfall and heavy snowfall starting from Thursday.

    The Met Office has issued a weather advisory indicating that a strong westerly wave is set to approach western parts of the country by February 29, likely affecting most areas by March 1. This weather system is expected to persist for approximately two days, potentially leading to disruptive conditions.

    Areas including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Gawadar, Quetta, Chitral, Abbottabad, GB, Kashmir, Multan, Faisalabad, and Sialkot are bracing for heavy rain accompanied by wind and thunderstorms.

    In Sindh, Kambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Ghotki, Sukkur & Dadu, Jamshoro, Thatta, Tharparker, Badin, Umerkot, Mirpur Khas, Hyderabad, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Naushahro feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar districts & Karachi division are bracing for heavy rain accompanied by wind and thunderstorms on February 29 and March 1. PMD has also warned of the possibility of isolated hailstorms during this period.

    Similarly, Balochistan is expected to experience widespread heavy rain along with wind and thunderstorms in areas such as Nokkundi, Dalbandin, Chagi, Kalat, Khuzdar, Lasbella, Awaran, Turbat, Kech, Gwadar, Jiwani, Pasni, Ormara, Panjgur, Kharan, Noushki, Washuk, Mastung, Sibbi, Naseerabad, Zhob, Sherani, Barkhan, Musakhel, Kohlu, Jhal Magsi, Loralai, Ziarat, Quetta, Chaman, Pishin, Qila Abdullah and Qila Saifullah during the same timeframe.

    Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is likely to witness heavy to extremely heavy rain coupled with thunderstorms from February 29 to March 3, affecting areas like Chitral (Lower & Upper), Dir (Lower & Upper), Malakand, Buner, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Torghar, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Swabi, Mardan, Nowshera, Peshawar, Charsadda, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Kurram, Orakzai, Hangu, Karak, Kohat, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, DI Khan, North & South Waziristan districts.

    Gilgit Baltistan (GB) and Kashmir are also expected to face heavy to extremely heavy widespread rain, along with windstorms and snowfall throughout the forecast period.

    In Punjab, cities including Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali and Bhakkar on 01st & 02nd March. Heavy snowfall is also expected in Murree, Galliyat and surrounding during the period. Rain-wind/thunderstorm is expected in Multan, Kot Addu, Layyah, Rajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sadiqabad, Khanpur, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur and Bahawalnagar are gearing up for widespread heavy rain accompanied by windstorms.

    The Met Office has issued warnings regarding the possibility of flash flooding in various regions. In Balochistan and Dera Ghazi Khan, heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding in local nullahs on February 29 and March 1. Similarly, hill torrents in KP, Kashmir, Murree, and Galliyat, as well as local nullahs in Islamabad, could experience flash flooding on March 1 and 2.

    Moreover, the heavy rain and snowfall may result in road closures in popular tourist destinations such as Murree, Naran, Kaghan, and Swat, among others. Consequently, tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this period.

    The PMD has urged all relevant authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate any potential risks or untoward situations arising from the forecasted severe weather conditions.

  • Rain, snowfall on its way

    Rain, snowfall on its way

    The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rain and strong winds in Karachi today. In Lahore, strong winds have caused the temperature to drop.

    According to the Meteorological Department, it may drizzle at some places in Karachi, Sajawal, and Thatta today. Strong winds will continue to blow in Karachi till this evening with cloudy skies.

    There is a possibility of rain and snowfall in the mountains today in the Pothohar region, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, North Balochistan, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, reports Geo News. Various areas of the country including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Kohat, Malakand, Muzaffarabad, Diamar, Chilas, and Chaman received rain while snowfall was recorded in the mountains.

    Rescue teams have been put on high alert in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, and Murree due to strong winds and rain.

    Commissioner Rawalpindi said that they are monitoring the situation caused by wind and rain in Murree, the Deputy Commissioner has given specific instructions to Murree for necessary arrangements.

    On the other hand, in Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy snowfall occurred in Neelum Jhelum Valley, which affected the movement of traffic due to slippage on connecting roads, the weather became colder due to snowfall in Swat, Upper and Lower Dir, Karam district.

    Abbottabad and Mansehra are experiencing rain in the plains and light snow in the upper reaches, with up to 2 inches of snow in Shogran and 4 inches in Naran.

    Additionally, the western system of rainfall entered North Balochistan after which heavy rain and hailstorms occurred in Pak-Afghan border areas including Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Muslim Bagh, Toba Kakadi, Toba Achakzai, and Sheila Bagh.

  • Late winters turn northern areas into snowland

    Late winters turn northern areas into snowland

    As late winter tightens its grip on the northern parts of the country, Naran, Kaghan, Shogran, and Murree, are transforming into winter wonderlands. The recent snowfall has not only captivated tourists but also prompted local authorities to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors.

    In Naran, Kaghan, and Shogran, heavy snowfall has persisted for the third consecutive day, with Babusar Top expected to remain under its winter coat until the coming Sunday, according to Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) official Mozam Ali.

    Notable snowfall accumulations include 1.5 feet in Shogran, 2.5 feet in Naran, 3.5 feet in Babusar, and seven inches in Kaghan.

    The Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) road has been opened up to Rajwal, allowing tourists to explore beyond this point. To assist both tourists and locals, the KDA has established a tourist facilitation center at Balakot.

    The typical winter pattern in these areas involves initial rains in the last 10 to 15 days of November, followed by snowfall in December.

    However, climate change has disrupted the pattern, resulting in a lack of rain and snow. This deviation has significantly decreased tourist activity in the region, causing concern among those involved in the sector.

    Meanwhile, in the popular hill station of Murree, the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC) has proactively initiated snow clearing and garbage removal operations following the season’s first snowfall.

    The efforts of the RWMC have allowed motorists to move easily in and around Murree, ensuring normal traffic flow.

    RWMC CEO Rana Sajid Safdar’s instructions to deploy additional workers during the snow season have proven effective in maintaining cleanliness despite the influx of visitors.

    The Murree district administration, under the directives of Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Abbas Sherazi, has finalized arrangements for the snowfall season.
    Tourists are being provided with weather updates and travel advisories at all entry points, with a special control room set up to facilitate inquiries and assistance.

    The district administration advises tourists to take necessary precautions, follow traffic rules, and stay informed about weather conditions before traveling to Murree.

    Strict actions are being taken against parking rules violators to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. In case of difficulties, tourists can seek assistance from dedicated tourist facilitation centers and the 24/7 operational control room.

  • Rain and snowfall finally on the way

    Rain and snowfall finally on the way

    The Provincial Disaster Management Authority in Punjab has issued an alert to the administration about rains and snowfall incoming in the next week.

    From today to January 31, there is a possibility of rain in the plains of Punjab and snowfall in the hilly areas, the spokesperson of PDMA warned. There is also possibility of snowfall with light and heavy rain in Murree and Galiyat from the 27th to the 31st of January.

    Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, and Sargodha will also receive rain between January 30 and 31, the spokesperson added.

    As for snowfall, the spokesperson cautioned that in Murree and Galiyat it may worsen the road conditions. Tourists are advised not to travel without checking the weather conditions. There are chances of landslides in hilly areas which may block the roads.

    PDMA has issued instructions to the administration across Punjab to remain alert.

    There is a round-the-clock information exchange system between the provincial and national institutions. Rescue agencies are on round-the-clock alert in view of the weather situation. The administration has directed the tourists coming from abroad to be especially careful and ensure their safety, PDMA informed.

  • Weather Report: Rains and snowfall to descend from the west

    Weather in the country is about to change as highlighted by weather expert Jawad Memon. A system from the western region of Iran will enter the country via Balochistan between October 16 to 21, Memon said.

    The system will bring rains to different parts of the country including Punjab, and central and upper Sindh regions. Drizzle might take place in southern Sindh, especially in Karachi. Moreover, this will prompt the first snowfall of the season in the northern areas.

    He further added that the second system will cause more than usual rains in the coming winter season.

  • Tourists stranded at Babusar Top after heavy snowfall

    Tourists stranded at Babusar Top after heavy snowfall

    Heavy snowfall in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Babusar Top area has trapped many tourists including their vehicles.

    According to the government, up to 3 inches of snow have fallen on the Babusar Top and emergency teams have been sent to the area to evacuate tourists who have got stuck in their vehicles. Passengers and visitors are advised to avoid using the highway until further notice.

    Heavy snowfall is continuing at Babusar Top, according to the Gilgit-Baltistan chief secretary, and the Babusar-Naran National Highway has been momentarily closed for all kinds of traffic.

    More than 50 vehicles, carrying lots of passengers and visitors, were evacuated at Babusar Top due to snowfall and harsh weather, as per rescue personnel. The rescued tourists were taken to Babusar Centre.

    Periodic snowfall is continuing at Babusar Top, according to rescue officials, while the mercury has fallen below freezing.

  • Murree, other districts finalise fresh emergency plan ahead of upcoming rain and snow

    Murree, other districts finalise fresh emergency plan ahead of upcoming rain and snow

    The administration of Rawalpindi district, which includes Gujar Khan, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan, Kotli Sattian, Murree, Rawalpindi Tehsil, and Taxila has finalised a fresh contingency plan ahead of the upcoming rain and snow that is forecasted for the hilly areas from Tuesday, January 18, and Thursday, January 20.

    The Meteorological Office has asked all departments to make appropriate arrangements ahead of the snowfall and rain in the region.

    Additional deputy commissioner and three assistant commissioners have been deployed in Murree to avoid another tragedy.

    According to the new plan, much of the focus will be on snow removal and traffic management. Entry in the hill station will be regulated which means not more 8,000 vehicles will be allowed to enter.

    In addition, the probe committee, which is expected to submit its report to Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar on January 16, is now camped out at the Punjab House in Islamabad.

    Earlier this week, The Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) responsible for the Murree tragedy which killed 23 people, including children due to carbon monoxide poisonous gas in their cars.

  • ‘Theatrics of Usman Buzdar’: CM Punjab gets trolled for helicopter survey of Murree

    ‘Theatrics of Usman Buzdar’: CM Punjab gets trolled for helicopter survey of Murree

    Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Sardar Usman Buzdar on Sunday arrived in Murree to review the rescue operation in the area after at least 22 people died in their snow-trapped cars.

    The CM’s visit received a lot of criticism as he did an ‘aerial survey’ of Murree. CM Buzdar arrived in his helicopter and overlooked the snow-covered area.

    Journalist Sumaira Khan took to Twitter and shared a video where CM Buzdar can be seen travelling in the helicopter and overlooking Murree.

    Twitter reacted to the shared video.

  • ‘If five thousand guests come to someone’s house without telling him what he can do’: Fawad on Murree

    ‘If five thousand guests come to someone’s house without telling him what he can do’: Fawad on Murree

    Federal Minister for information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry addressed the tragic Murree incident and said when tens of thousand vehicles enter an area simultaneously there would be chaos.

    According to him, all the vehicles entered Murree within 24 hours despite several warnings from the administration.

    In a press conference along with the Federal Minister of Education Shafqat Mahmood, Fawad said, “If five thousand guests come to someone’s house without telling him what he can do.”

    Referring to Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan’s statement, “We are looking into the situation. We should learn from such incidents.”

    The federal minister also defended his previous statement that the common man traveling to Murree shows they’re getting rich by saying that the economy is getting “stronger”.

    He urged the media to advise people, not to go to northern areas as they are already full. Moreover, he updated that Express Highway is cleared and the evacuation process is underway.

    Talking about the Opposition’s criticism, he said they just did politics and pointed out Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz and leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

    As of now, 22 deaths have been reported in Murree. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid said the authorities would evacuate 1,000 vehicles by today evening, while the roads would remain closed to Murree till tomorrow 9pm.

  • ‘Heart wrenching’: Pakistani notables react after 21 stranded tourists die in Murree

    ‘Heart wrenching’: Pakistani notables react after 21 stranded tourists die in Murree

    Several Pakistani notables took to their social media after 21 stranded tourists died in Murree on Saturday.

    All the routes in Murree were blocked after thousands of vehicles entered the city, leaving tourists helpless on the roads.

    Pakistani actor Ayesha Omar wrote: “The scenario in murree is #Heartbreaking. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones and also all the hundreds of people who were stranded all night. It’s horrific. May Allah bless the souls of the ones departed.”

    Similarly, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, taking to Twitter, said: “I am very shocked & sad to see the heart wrenching images/videos coming from Murree, stay safe everyone, my heart goes out to the families of the deceased, May The Almighty bless the departed souls…”

    Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal, singer turned actor Junaid Khan, director Nabeel Qureshi, author Fatima Bhutto, actors Faysal Quraishi, Ahmad Ali But and Usman Mukhtar took to their social media to express their thoughts on the dreadful event.

    The Punjab government has declared Murree as a calamity-hit area after heavy snowfall wreaked havoc in the city. Taking notice of the chaos and emergency situation, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar has directed to open the government’s offices and rest houses for the stranded tourists.