Weather

Severe cold wave hits Pakistan, Kashmir, temperatures drop to record lows

Published by

Staff Reporter

2 years ago

ISLAMABAD: As it’s almost the end of December, Pakistan and parts of Kashmir have been under the influence of a chilling cold wave, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department recording record low temperatures in the region on December 13, 2024.

The mercury has plunged to unheard-of lows in many places, with Leh recording the lowest temperature of -12°C.

Other areas recorded bone-chilling temperatures too, with Astore at -11°C, and Skardu at -9°C. Cold wave conditions prevailed across the other affected areas as well, including Quetta, with temperatures also being recorded at -6°C in Kalam and Gupis.

The widespread cold wave saw -5°C recorded in Hunza, Bagrot, Ziarat, and Kalat; while Gilgit, Chitral, and Dir received -4°C.

Minimum Temperatures Recorded in Major Cities

In Islamabad, the temperature dropped to 0°C, while Lahore recorded a chilly 5°C. Karachi, however, remained relatively warm at 12°C. Peshawar shivered at 2°C, while Quetta recorded a bone-chilling -6°C. Gilgit and Muzaffarabad both recorded temperatures of -4°C and 2°C, respectively. Skardu was the coldest, with a temperature of -9°C, while Murree recorded -1°C. Other cities, including Faisalabad, Multan, and Sialkot, also experienced cold temperatures, ranging from 4°C to 6°C.

In Kashmir and surrounding areas, the temperatures were equally chilly. Srinagar recorded -2°C, while Jammu was slightly warmer at 4°C. Leh was the coldest in the region, with a temperature of -12°C. Pulwama, Anantnag, Shopian, and Baramulla all recorded temperatures ranging from -3°C to -2°C.

The severe cold wave had people take necessary precautions for safety against merciless biting winter weather. The Met Office urges the public to take protective measures against the intense cold. With temperatures still dropping, the region is getting ready for a winter that could be much harsher still.

Staff Reporter