ISLAMABAD – Winter is tightening its grip, and a fierce westerly weather system is making its way into Pakistan, promising heavy snowfall, icy roads, and the looming threat of landslides across northern and central regions.
From winding roads of Murree to the high peaks of Hunza and Skardu, travelers and locals alike are being urged to stay vigilant. With emergency teams on standby and roads likely to close, this storm is set to turn Pakistan’s mountainous landscapes into a winter challenge unlike any other, just as the holiday season peaks.
Snowfall Alert
As New Year witnessed influx of tourists, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warns that the system will reach its peak intensity between December 30 and January 1, hitting western Pakistan first before sweeping across most upper and central areas by December 31. Northern regions will remain in its grip until the morning of January 2, 2026.
Tourist hotspots and mountainous regions are under particular threat. Naran, Kaghan, Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Hunza, Skardu, and Astore could face slippery roads and temporary closures, while upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir are at high risk for landslides and avalanches.
The warning comes at the height of winter travel, raising alarms for both tourists and commuters venturing into high-altitude areas. Officials are urging avoidance of non-essential travel and continuous monitoring of weather updates.
Disaster authority ordered provincial and regional disaster authorities, including PDMAs, GBDMA, SDMA, and the Islamabad Capital Territory administration, to be fully prepared, keeping emergency teams on standby. Coordination across agencies is being emphasized to safeguard lives, property, and vital infrastructure.
