The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Punjab has issued a high alert for rain and heavy snowfall, probably starting from Monday through January 23 amid strong western currents. Murree and the Galyat region are expected to experience intense weather conditions. Murree faces the risk of significant snowfall.
According to PDMA, a western weather system is influencing the province, bringing intermittent to heavy rainfall across most divisions of Punjab, including Lahore, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Multan, Faisalabad, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Bahawalpur. In the upper hilly areas particularly Murree, Galiyat, and other mountainous areas, heavy snowfall combined with rain is forecasted, prompting heightening precautionary measures for residents and visitors.
Irfan Ali Kathia, Director General PDMA Punjab, has directed all relevant departments to ensure full preparedness in line with the instructions of the Chief Minister Punjab.
“All arrangements must be completed in advance to effectively handle any emergency situations”, the DG stressed
Special instructions have been issued to the district administration in Murree and allied departments to remain on high alert.
Emergency control rooms have been instructed to operate with staff on 24-hour duty, while Rescue 1122 disaster response teams are on high alert to enable immediate action in case of any untoward incidents.
In response to the prevailing forecast, Murree administration has established facilitation centers at various locations to provide timely guidance and assistance to visitors during the adverse weather.
The PDMA spokesperson urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel in bad weather and strictly follow the issued precautionary measures. In case of any emergency, citizens can immediately contact the PDMA Punjab helpline at 1129.
The spokesman highlighted that the situation was being closely monitored, and all relevant agencies remain fully mobilized to ensure public safety across the province.
A traffic accident occurred on Monday on the Pattoki National Highway due to dense fog, leaving six people injured, including a woman.
According to APP correspondent, the accident happened when a crane took a U-turn, and a truck and passenger car collided with it.
The passenger van was traveling from Basirpur to Lahore when the accident occurred. The rescue crew provided medical assistance to two people on the spot, while four others were shifted to THQ Pattoki for further treatment.
The injured individuals include Abdul Ghafoor (25), Bilal (18), Safdar (46), Mudassar (34), Muzammil (42), and Samina Bibi (52). The accident highlights the dangers of driving in foggy conditions, and authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution.
The Motorway Police have issued safety cautions, advising drivers to use fog lights, drive slowly, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Astore, Muhammad Owais Abbasi, and Assistant Commissioner (AC) Sub-Division Shunter, Khalid Anwar, have issued a weather alert for the district on Monday, warning of intermittent snowfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms from January 19 to 23, 2026.
According to APP correspondent, the upper areas of Sub-Division Shunter are expected to be most affected, with risks of road closures, severe slippage, landslides, and avalanches.
Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this period. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should use tire chains, limit vehicle speed, and take necessary safety precautions to avoid accidents. The district administration is closely monitoring the situation and has urged the public to stay informed.
In case of emergencies, the public can contact control rooms for immediate assistance. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has also issued warnings for heavy snowfall and strong winds in northern regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Authorities are taking measures to ensure public safety, and residents are advised to stay updated through official channels for the latest weather forecasts and instructions.