Pakistan witnessed an unusual winter phenomenon as snowfall was reported in the desert of Nushki district in Balochistan, a rare event that residents say has not occurred in around 20 years.
Vast stretches of sand dunes were transformed into a white winter landscape, surprising locals and highlighting the country’s increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Extreme Cold and Snow in Multiple Regions
The current cold wave has affected several regions where snowfall is historically uncommon. Swat’s urban areas reportedly received snow after 16 years, while Gargari near Karak saw snowfall after 25 years, with temperatures in Karak dropping to -2°C.
In Battagram, heavy snowfall of up to four feet in some areas has left residents confined indoors. Power outages persisted for two days, and authorities were forced to close parts of the Karakoram Highway due to hazardous conditions, restricting travel.
Rare Hailstorms in Punjab
Alongside the snow, unusual hailstorms were recorded in parts of Punjab. Attock experienced hail after 40 years, while Bhakkar recorded hail after 42 years, demonstrating the severity of shifting climate patterns.
Climate Context and Advisory
These unusual weather events highlight Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, despite contributing a relatively small share of global greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, the country has faced extreme climate events, including intense monsoon floods, heavy summer downpours, and harsher winter conditions.
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to avoid unnecessary travel, adhere to local advisories, and take extra precautions as low temperatures and icy road conditions continue to pose safety risks.
