PDMA warns of intense cold spell in Punjab from Jan 10–16

Urges public and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow safety guidelines

LAHORE:

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for extremely cold weather across the province from January 10 to January 16, urging the public and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow safety guidelines during adverse weather conditions.

According to the advisory, formal notifications have been sent to multiple departments including Tourism, Education, Health, Agriculture, Local Government, Forest, Communication and Works (C&W), Transport, Rescue 1122, National Highway Authority and the Police Department, urging them to remain on high alert and ensure necessary precautionary measures.

The PDMA stated that severe cold and snowfall are expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, the Galiyat region and the Potohar belt, while an increase in fog and smog conditions is also likely in various parts of Punjab.

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Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia directed universities, colleges and other educational institutions to issue guidelines to students regarding appropriate winter clothing and to ensure adequate arrangements in classrooms to protect against cold weather.

He further instructed all hospitals, particularly basic health units, to ensure the availability of medicines and staff during the cold spell.

PMD issues Weather Update for Tourists 📢
Cold conditions with rain & snowfall in northern tourist areas on 10 Jan 2026.
Plan travel safely with official PMD updates.#TouristWeather #PMD #TravelAlert #PakistanTourism #Snowfall pic.twitter.com/kT1HrZb8bQ

— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) January 10, 2026

The DG urged the general public to take necessary precautions, avoid unnecessary outdoor movement, and use face masks as smog levels are expected to rise. Citizens have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.

Special instructions have been issued for tourists to strictly follow safety guidelines. Facilitation centers have been established at various locations in Murree to assist visitors.

Travelers have been advised to avoid speeding and sudden braking, use fog lights during travel, and follow all safety protocols. The PDMA Control Room is monitoring the situation round the clock.

In case of any emergency, citizens can contact the PDMA helpline 1129.