Fact check: Viral claims of record cold and snowfall are untrue

Social media posts have been widely shared claiming that Pakistan will face the worst cold spell in the last 100 years between January 16 and 25. These posts warn of heavy snowfall from Peshawar to Lahore, extremely low temperatures in major cities, and weather conditions not seen since the 19th century.

According to the viral messages, Lahore could receive up to five inches of snowfall with temperatures falling to minus 4°C. Rawalpindi and Islamabad are also said to be at risk of snowfall, with temperatures dropping to minus 5°C, similar to conditions reportedly seen in 1964.

The claims go further by saying that Murree and Galiyat may receive 2 to 4 feet of snowfall. They also mention extremely low temperatures in other areas, including minus 15°C in Dir, minus 20°C in Quetta, and minus 25°C in Ziarat. Some posts even warn of icy winds reaching 100 km/h and a high risk of frostbite in Balochistan and upper regions.

However, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has strongly rejected these claims. PMD Director General Sahibzad Khan told Hum News Digital that the information spreading on social media is false and has no connection with actual weather data. He clearly stated that no record-breaking cold wave or unusual snowfall is expected anywhere in the country.

According to the PMD, Pakistan is currently experiencing a normal winter season. Weather forecasts do not support predictions of extreme cold or heavy snowfall in major cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, or Islamabad.

The Meteorological Department has advised the public to follow only official weather updates and trusted sources. Officials warned that false social media reports can create unnecessary fear and panic among people.

Verdict: False

The claim that Pakistan will experience a 100-year record-breaking cold wave with widespread snowfall between January 16 and 25 is false. The country’s official weather authority has confirmed that no such extreme or unprecedented weather event is expected.

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