ISLAMABAD: This year, the cold in Gilgit-Baltistan has intensified, breaking a decade-long record for low temperatures as meteorological department reported that the average minimum temperature in Gilgit has dropped to -8°C, compared to -3°C recorded ten years ago.
The report further states that Skardu has experienced an even sharper drop, with average temperatures plummeting to 11°C below freezing — marking a significant 8°C decline over the past decade.
Experts warn that the cold is expected to intensify further, potentially disrupting daily life in the region and residents are advised to take precautionary measures to protect themselves against the harsh winter.
As per meteorological continental air is prevailing over most parts of the country. On Wednesday, mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country, while very cold in hilly areas. Smog/fog (in patches) is likely to persist in plain areas of Punjab, upper/central Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during night.
In past 24 hour weather, cold and dry weather prevailed over most parts of the country, while very cold in hilly areas. Smog/fog (in patches) persisted in plain areas of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Sindh. Today’s Recorded Lowest Minimum Temperature (°C): Leh -13, Skardu -11, Astore, Gupis -08, Gilgit -07, Quetta, Ziarat -06, Hunza, Bagrote and Dir -05.
On Thursday, mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country, while very cold in hilly areas during morning and night hours. Cloudy weather with light rain/light snow may occur in Gilgit Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir during evening/night. Smog/fog (in patches) is likely to persist at few plain areas of Punjab, upper/central Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during morning/night hours. Frost is likely to occur at isolated places in Pothohar region during morning hours.
Heavy snowfall in the upper areas of Gilgit-Baltistan has resulted in widespread difficulties for residents as it severed land communication and strandied travellers.Temperatures in the region have plummeted to minus 14 Celsius, further exacerbating the difficulties.
Key routes, including Babusar Top and Khunjerab Pass, have been closed due to snow, disrupting travel between Pakistan and China.Authorities confirmed that several vehicles were stranded at Khunjerab Pass, while a rockfall at Roundu has blocked Baltistan Road. However, officials said the road would be restored for traffic.
The GB administration has warned of continued heavy snowfall in Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar and Ghanche districts until Nov 16, urging residents to exercise caution.Meanwhile, according to the Skardu deputy commissioner, the army successfully rescued 15 passengers stranded in the snow-covered Deosai plains.
