Cold Wave Grips Upper and Plains Areas of the Country, Temperatures Drop Below Freezing

Islamabad:A severe cold wave has gripped the upper and plains areas of Pakistan, with temperatures dropping below freezing in several regions. In northern Balochistan, including Quetta, the temperature reached sub-zero levels, causing water in ponds, ditches, and roads to freeze.

In Qalat, the temperature recorded a chilling **minus 7°C**, while **minus 6°C** was recorded in Quetta. Other areas, including Malam Jabba, Chitral, and Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as Murree, Rawalakot, and various districts in Gilgit-Baltistan, also saw temperatures fall below freezing.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, **Islamabad** and **Peshawar** recorded a minimum temperature of **minus 1°C**, while **Lahore** saw a relatively higher temperature of **4°C**, and **Karachi** recorded **12°C**.

The Meteorological Department has predicted rainfall in **Lahore** on **December 23**, which is expected to further lower temperatures in the region.

In Karachi, **strong winds** are expected to continue today, and the cold conditions are likely to intensify in the coming days. The cold wave has gripped the country, and citizens are advised to take precautions against the harsh weather conditions.