Winter blankets northern areas

Winter has arrived in full swing across Pakistan's northern regions, bringing with it snowfall and rainfall that have drastically lowered temperatures.

The season's first snowfall has blanketed popular tourist destinations, creating both beauty and challenges.

Light snowfall has been reported in Abbottabad, Changla Gali, Khaira Gali, and Khanspur.

In the Kaghan Valley, intermittent snowfall continues in Kaghan, Naran and Shogran, with temperatures at Babusar Top plunging to -7°C.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast that dry and cold weather will dominate most parts of the country over the next 24 hours.

However, it predicts cloudy skies with isolated rain and snowfall in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir and adjacent mountainous areas.

In Balakot, heavy snowfall in the tourist hotspots of Shogran and Siri Paye stranded several visitors as roads became impassable.

According to DSP Kaghan Circle Uzair Khan, rescue operations have successfully evacuated all tourists to safety.

"All stranded tourists have been safely moved to Shogran," said DSP Khan. "No tourists remain at Siri Paye. Police teams are stationed in Shogran to assist and guide visitors," he added.

DSP Khan said that tourists will only be allowed to travel to Balakot once weather conditions improve.

The Kaghan Valley, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, has turned into a winter wonderland, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts. However, authorities have advised travellers to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution when visiting snow-covered regions.

A day earlier, the PMD issued a snow security alert in Murree and Galyat on Sunday. The forecast came after a long drought.

All Sahulat centres have become operational and the first mock rehearsal has also been completed. The Met Office also forecast the first rains of winter in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad and Rawalpindi Division and the beginning of freezing cold on Saturday.