Pakistan Braces for a Chilling Winter as Cold Wave Set to Grip the Country

Pakistan is preparing for a cold wave to hit the country from December 8, with temperatures plummeting and snowfall expected in some regions, posing significant risks to public health, agricultural crops, and emergency services. Authorities are on high alert, urging citizens and tourists to take necessary precautions as the weather conditions are expected to worsen over the coming days.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast a significant drop in temperatures, with a 4-6°C drop expected in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, and a 5-7°C drop in Balochistan and Sindh. The cold wave is expected to bring snowfall in mountainous areas like Murree, while the upper parts of the country and central areas of Punjab are likely to experience rain. The low temperatures and cold gusty winds pose a significant risk to public health, particularly for children, the elderly, and those living in rural areas without access to heating.

The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing gas and power shortages, which are expected to worsen the situation further. Households are likely to rely on costly alternatives like LPG-run and kerosene heaters, increasing energy consumption and strain on already overburdened power infrastructure. Authorities are advised to take immediate action to enforce public safety measures, ensuring that tourists are properly briefed on winter conditions and emergency protocols.

Agricultural crops are also at risk from frost and gusty winds, which are expected to have a devastating impact on food supply, particularly in rural areas. The Meteorological Department has advised farmers to manage their activities according to the weather forecast, and take necessary precautions to prevent damage to crops. Authorities are urged to take swift action to mitigate the effects of the cold wave, which is expected to have far-reaching consequences for public health, agriculture, and emergency services.

As the cold wave is expected to grip Pakistan for the coming days, citizens are advised to remain vigilant, stock up on essential supplies, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Authorities must prioritize public safety, enforce emergency protocols, and work towards mitigating the effects of the cold wave to minimize the risks to human life and infrastructure.