Date Confirmed for Arrival of Cold and Harsh Siberian Winds in Pakistan
 Oct 31, 2025 | 11:21 am
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has confirmed that cold Siberian winds will begin sweeping across Pakistan by late November, marking the official start of the winter season. The next three to four months are expected to bring colder nights, near-normal rainfall, and varying temperature patterns across the country.
🌬️ Siberian Winds to Intensify Winter
According to Dr. Tayyeb Shah, Senior Disaster Risk Assessment official at NDMA, the Siberian High pressure system will strengthen toward the end of November, gradually lowering temperatures—especially in northern and central Pakistan.
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Northern areas are likely to face severe cold during December.
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Plains and southern regions will experience mild to near-normal temperatures.
❄️ Snowfall Outlook for Northern Pakistan
The NDMA forecast indicates that snowfall will be slightly below normal this winter, particularly in:
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Gilgit-Baltistan
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Chitral
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Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Light snowfall may begin in late October, while more consistent accumulation is expected from mid-November through December.
Although reduced snow cover may impact glacier health and future water availability, NDMA reassures that no major water shortage is expected due to adequate monsoon storage in reservoirs.
🏔️ Landslide and Travel Alerts for Mountainous Areas
Regions such as Kohistan, Mansehra, Swat, Diamir, Astore, Nagar, and Neelum remain moderately vulnerable to landslides. Residual monsoon moisture, combined with freeze-thaw cycles, could trigger small slope failures.
The NDMA warns that key routes like the Karakoram Highway and Neelum Valley Road may face temporary disruptions, urging authorities to maintain early warning systems and real-time monitoring.
🌵 Drought Concerns in Southern Pakistan
Southern regions—especially southwestern Balochistan and parts of Sindh—may experience mild to moderate drought conditions due to persistent dryness and groundwater reliance.
Vulnerable districts include:
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Chagai
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Nushki
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Panjgur
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Gwadar
The NDMA recommends climate-smart agriculture, efficient groundwater management, and drought preparedness to safeguard rural communities.
🌫️ Smog Alert for Punjab and KP
The NDMA has also issued an alert for worsening smog from October through December, calling it the most critical seasonal hazard of late 2025.
Severe smog is expected in Punjab’s industrial and agricultural belt, including:
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Lahore
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Faisalabad
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Sheikhupura
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Gujranwala
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Multan
Air Quality Index (AQI) levels may exceed 400 (hazardous) in peak months. Peshawar and other urban centers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could also experience low to moderate smog events.
Authorities have urged strict emission control, prevention of crop burning, and public awareness campaigns to minimize health risks and transport disruptions.
With Siberian winds, chilly nights, and dense smog on the horizon, the NDMA emphasizes preparedness and caution as Pakistan transitions into a colder, more challenging winter season.
