ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz on Tuesday predicted that cold and dry weather will prevail across the country in the coming days, surpassing the record lows of January and December. Speaking to a private news channel, he warned that a fresh wave of cold air is expected to engulf the country, with temperatures likely to drop to single-digit lows, adding that this extended winter is forecast to last for at least a week. maybe longer. According to PMD Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz, the country has already experienced a record cold spell this winter. Notably, temperatures in January and December this year were significantly lower compared to the same period in 2023, he said. This unusual drop in temperature has brought extremely cold weather conditions, with the mercury expected to drop further in the coming days, he added. A fresh wave of cold air is expected to sweep over Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in the next 9 to 10 days, PMD Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz said. Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) can expect brief relief from cold with rain lasting for 2-3 days, he said, adding that dry and cold weather will soon return to the region. He further said that the northern areas of Pakistan were covered with significant snow, with some areas receiving up to 9 inches of snow. Heavy snowfall has turned the picturesque landscape of the northern regions into a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and valleys presenting a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, he added. He also urged citizens to check the latest weather alerts and forecasts to be aware of the prevailing weather. In addition, the PMD warned citizens to take necessary precautions to protect against inclement weather, especially in areas where heavy snowfall or extremely cold temperatures are expected. Responding to a query, the Chief Meteorologist also revealed that the country is likely to experience a drier winter than usual. According to his forecast, Pakistan is expected to experience below-average snowfall and rainfall during the current winter season, marking a marked departure from the rainfall patterns seen in previous years.
