NDMA Issues Cold Wave Alert as Temperatures Drop Across Pakistan

Published On: January 22, 2026

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for severe cold weather across various parts of Pakistan, warning citizens to take precautionary measures amid falling temperatures and harsh winter conditions.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, cold and dry weather is expected to continue in most regions over the coming days, with no significant rainfall forecast in the short term.

Lahore Faces Intense Cold and Rising Smog Levels

In Lahore, chilly winds have further intensified the cold. The city’s current temperature has dropped to 7°C, while humidity levels have surged to 95 percent, making the weather feel even colder. Winds are blowing at around 5 km/h, adding to discomfort for residents.

Alongside cold weather, air pollution has once again reached dangerous levels. Lahore ranked among the world’s most polluted cities, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 205. Several areas reported alarming pollution levels:

Iqbal Town: 231
Model Town: 211
DHA Phase 5: 195
Civil Secretariat: 186
Cantt: 185
Chaman Park: 182
Askari 10: 170
Gulberg II: 164

Health experts have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity and use face masks, particularly children, elderly people, and patients suffering from respiratory illnesses.

Islamabad Experiences Freezing Temperatures

The federal capital Islamabad is also experiencing harsh winter conditions, with the minimum temperature recorded at 3°C. Weather officials predict cold and dry conditions to persist, with daytime temperatures likely to reach 16°C.

Morning temperatures hovered around 5°C, while winds are expected to blow at speeds of up to 9 km/h throughout the day. Humidity levels remain above 50 percent, and there is a possibility of light fog during early mornings and late nights, although no rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours.

NDMA Warns of Severe Cold in Northern Regions

According to NDMA, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Potohar region, and northern Balochistan are likely to experience intensified cold wave conditions.

In the coming days, temperatures are expected to drop further in Quetta, Ziarat, Qalat, and surrounding areas of northern Balochistan.

Health, Agriculture & Travel Advisory

NDMA has warned that extreme cold may lead to an increase in respiratory and seasonal illnesses. Citizens have been urged to wear warm clothing and take preventive health measures.

The authority has also cautioned farmers about the risk of crop damage due to freezing conditions, advising them to adopt protective strategies.

Additionally, NDMA highlighted that dense fog in plain areas could reduce visibility during morning hours, urging travelers to exercise extra caution while commuting.