The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a cold wave alert for northern Pakistan and northern Balochistan, warning citizens of sharply dropping temperatures, dense fog, and related health and travel risks.

Residents have been urged to take precautions to stay safe in the coming days.

Severe cold is expected to continue across Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Pothohar region, while northern Balochistan including Quetta, Ziarat, and Kalat may also experience freezing conditions.

Authorities have advised local communities to prepare for harsh weather. The NDMA highlighted potential health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Respiratory illnesses may rise, and prolonged cold could damage standing crops, impacting agricultural output in affected areas.

Dense fog is expected across plains during early mornings. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously, as reduced visibility could increase the risk of accidents.

Emergency services have been instructed to remain alert to respond promptly to cold-related incidents.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), northeasterly winds have reached Karachi, with minimum temperatures expected to drop to 10–11°C from Thursday night.  By the weekend, temperatures may fall into the single digits, reaching 9°C.

Northern and high-altitude areas are already experiencing subzero temperatures, including Leh at –11°C, Ziarat –9°C, Astore –8°C, and Kalat and Kalam –7°C.

Skardu recorded –6°C, Gupis –5°C, while Hunza, Malam Jabba, Parachinar, Quetta, and Nathia Gali have seen –4°C.

In Punjab, Lahore is expected to drop to 3°C, with other areas around 1°C. The NDMA and PMD have urged citizens to stay informed through official updates, wear warm clothing, and take special care of the elderly, children, and vulnerable individuals.

Local administrations are monitoring the situation closely to ensure public safety and wellbeing.