Pakistan to Experience Prolonged Cold Wave in Early 2025

A prolonged cold wave is forecasted to hit Pakistan in the second week of January 2025, with temperatures expected to plummet to single digits in various parts of the country.

Pakistan is bracing itself for a severe cold wave, which is expected to grip the region in the second week of January 2025. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), cold and dry weather will prevail across most parts of the country, with very cold conditions expected to persist in hilly areas during morning and nighttime hours. The cold wave is expected to intensify, with temperatures dropping further in many areas. Skardu has already recorded a temperature of -11°C, while other hilly regions such as Astore, Gupis, Gilgit, Quetta, and Ziarat have seen temperatures at -8°C, -7°C, -6°C, and -6°C respectively.

The hilly regions are expected to face the brunt of the cold weather, with partly cloudy conditions and light rain or snow expected in these areas during the evening and nighttime hours. In contrast, the plain areas of the country are expected to experience smog or moderate to dense fog in patches. Karachi, which has already been hit by a relentless cold wave, is expected to continue to face chilly weather, with the Met Office predicting a temperature drop of 3-5 degrees Celsius in Tharparkar and Umerkot. The nighttime temperatures across Sindh are expected to remain below normal levels, with Upper and Central Sindh experiencing a drop of 2-4 degrees Celsius and Lower Sindh experiencing a drop of 2-3 degrees Celsius.

The cold wave is expected to bring the minimum temperature in Karachi down to between 9 and 11 degrees Celsius. In other parts of the country, cold and dry weather has already prevailed, with very cold conditions reported in hilly areas. Skardu has recorded a temperature of -13 degrees Celsius, Leh at -12 degrees Celsius, while Astore and Gilgit have seen temperatures as low as -8 degrees Celsius.

As the situation evolves, residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as dressing warmly and staying indoors, especially during the cold night hours.