The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Monday issued a significant travel warning, advising tourists to exercise extreme caution and avoid non-essential journeys to high-altitude areas due to a potent westerly weather system. The advisory highlights a considerable risk of landslides, avalanches, and road blockades in numerous northern regions ahead of the New Year.
According to meteorological projections, the westerly wave is set to enter the nation”s western parts on the night of 29th December 2025. It is forecast to strengthen from 30th December, enveloping most upper and central parts of the country by 31st December and lingering in the upper regions until the morning of 2nd January 2026.
The anticipated snowfall is expected to create hazardous, slippery road conditions and potential closures in Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli from the night of 30th December. During this period, hilly areas across upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir face a heightened likelihood of landslides and avalanches.
In a related development, the wet spell is anticipated to cause a reduction in fog conditions that have been affecting central and southern Punjab, as well as upper Sindh.
In response to the forecast, the NDMA has directed all relevant provincial and regional disaster management authorities, including PDMAs, GBDMA, SDMA, and the ICT Administration, to implement all necessary preparedness and response protocols. These bodies have been instructed to maintain a high state of vigilance, ensure prompt information sharing, and keep emergency teams on standby to minimise potential harm to life, property, and critical infrastructure.
The national authority affirmed it is closely monitoring the developing situation and coordinating with all stakeholders for a timely response. The general public is strongly encouraged to stay informed of the latest weather updates, particularly by using the ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile application before planning any travel to the potentially affected regions.