SKARDU, GB (MNN); The scenic valley of Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan is experiencing a severe cold spell, with temperatures plunging to minus 11 degrees Celsius in populated areas and dropping further to minus 14 degrees in the surrounding highlands, sources reported on Saturday.
Despite clear, sunny days, the bitter cold shows no signs of easing, leaving the popular tourist valley enveloped in an intense cold wave.
Many residents have been forced to stay indoors, while thick morning fog is slowing traffic on main roads. Tourist activity in the region has noticeably declined as the cold intensifies.
The falling temperatures have led to a sharp rise in demand for firewood and LPG, while frequent electricity outages are adding to the difficulties faced by local residents.
The Meteorological Department has warned that the cold is expected to deepen in the coming days, with dry and chilly weather likely to continue.
Meanwhile, heavy snowfall at Babusar Top, one of the most visited points in the Naran valley, has resulted in the complete closure of the road from Battakundi to the summit.
Authorities have allowed visitors to travel only between 11am and 2pm, up to Lake Saif-ul-Malook and Battakundi, in order to minimize the risk of accidents on slippery roads.
The weather department has also forecast further snowfall in Kaghan, Naran, and Babusar Top during the first week of December, which may last for up to four days.
