Rain and Snow Sweep Across Balochistan, Roads Reopened Amid Freezing Temperatures and Gas Shortages

Quetta (Daily Qudrat Quetta): Winter rain and snowfall continue intermittently across northern, hilly, and coastal areas of Balochistan, causing significant disruptions but also easing a long period of drought. Heavy rainfall and snowfall were recorded in Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Toba Achakzai, Ziarat, Kan Mehtarzai, Qila Saifullah, Kojak Top, and other high-altitude areas.

Rescue teams from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) remain on high alert, clearing snow with snowplows, loaders, and heavy machinery to ensure that highways are reopened for traffic. The Meteorological Department had issued advance warnings two days prior, instructing district administrations to prepare for potential emergencies. National highways and snowfall-prone regions have been fortified with rescue forces and equipment.

In Qalat city and surrounding areas, 29 millimeters of rainfall were recorded over the past 24 hours, with temperatures dropping to freezing point. Severe cold, coupled with unscheduled electricity load-shedding and gas shortages, has caused difficulties for residents, who have turned to coal and wood stoves, driving up prices in local markets. Falling walls and uprooted trees were reported in several areas.

Winter showers and snowfall were also reported in Chagai, Taftan, Kachao, and Sindk, with light rains in Nokundi, Brabchah, and Dalbandin. In Gwadar, long-awaited rainfall brought relief to the residents. High-altitude areas such as Kan Mehtarzai and Kojak Top experienced hail and first snowfall, intensifying the cold. PDMA rescue teams continue efforts to maintain traffic flow and respond to emergencies.

The Meteorological Department forecasts continued rain and snowfall in districts including Mastung, Sibi, Turbat, Nokundi, Chaman, Qila Saifullah, Ziarat, Hernai, Pishin, and Zhob. Current temperatures recorded are: Qalat 0°C, Quetta 6°C, Ziarat -1°C, Zhob 6°C, Sibi 10°C, Turbat 13°C, and Chaman 7°C.

While the winter precipitation brings hope for agricultural lands and water reservoirs in hilly areas, citizens are forced to rely on coal and wood for heating. PDMA and the Meteorological Department remain on continuous alert to address any emergencies arising from the severe weather conditions.