Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Life Across Northern Pakistan, Roads Closed and Tourists Stranded

Friday, January 23, 2026: Heavy snowfall across the northern regions of Pakistan has badly affected daily life, leaving several roads blocked and hundreds of tourists and local residents stranded. At least two people have died and dozens have been injured in weather-related accidents.

In northern Balochistan, a strong snowstorm is still ongoing. Dozens of tourist vehicles travelling to Ziarat were stuck on the Quetta–Ziarat highway due to heavy snow. In Chaman, more than 100 tourist vehicles were also stranded after roads were closed.

Traffic on the N-50 highway near Kan Mehtarzai, Khanozai and Muslim Bagh has been suspended because of snow and slippery conditions. Passenger buses and cargo trucks are stuck at several points. Nine separate accidents on the same highway left 27 people injured.

At Kojak Top, extremely cold winds have increased the severity of the weather. On the N-25 Chaman–Quetta–Karachi highway, the temperature dropped to minus 12 degrees Celsius. Near Shelabagh, several vehicles slipped and collided, killing two people and injuring seven others.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy snowfall was reported in Mansehra, Upper Galiyat, Shangla, Lower Dir, Mohmand, Kalam, Orakzai, Chitral and Khyber. In the Tirah Valley of Khyber district, nearly 100 vehicles were trapped. Rescue teams shifted 35 people to safe locations.

Snowfall has also disrupted the power supply in Shangla, leaving many areas without electricity. In Chitral, several link roads are closed, causing serious problems for residents.

Popular tourist spots have also received fresh snowfall. Naran recorded six inches, while Shogran received around one and a half inches. Many tourists are visiting these areas, but authorities have advised caution.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, upper areas of Astore received up to three feet of snow, cutting off land connections. People are confined to their homes. Snowfall was also reported in Hunza and Nagar.

In earthquake-hit Chipurson, people living in tents are facing severe hardship due to extreme cold. Heavy snowfall was also recorded in Chilas, Babusar Top, Nanga Parbat, Batogah, Darel and Tangir.

In Azad Kashmir, rain continued in lower areas, while snowfall was reported in Leepa Valley, Ganga Choti, Chakothi, Hattian Bala and Neelum Valley.

In Murree, snowfall is ongoing. The Murree Expressway has been partially closed, and authorities have advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel.