MURREE (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted rain and snowfall in Murree and other adjoining hill stations of Galyat and Nathiagali from December 30, which is expected to continue until January 2 in these areas, including New Year’s Eve.
Earlier in its weather advisory, the Met Office warned of possible rain and snowfall over the next two to three days, as a western weather system entered the country on December 30.
According to the advisory, the weather system is expected to intensify tomorrow, with rain forecasted for the upper and central parts of Islamabad and its surroundings. Snowfall is expected in Naran, Kaghan, Swat, Dir, Murree, Galyat, and Skardu, with fears of road closures due to heavy snowfall.
Amid the prevailing severe Murree weather, the district administration issued a special advisory for tourists visiting the hill station and adjoining areas.
Travel advisory
The administration advised tourists to monitor weather conditions through both traditional and online media before embarking on a tour. They advised tourists to use tire chains when traveling through snow-covered regions, check tire pressures, and make sure that fuel levels are full before setting out.
The administration directed the tourists to obey the instructions of the traffic police and follow the agreed traffic plan to avoid congestion and ease flow. The authorities also directed the visitors to adhere to the standard operating procedure and the guidelines on environmentally responsible tourism.
Tourists facing challenges or emergencies have been urged to seek help from the facilitation centers that have been established by the administration.
Deputy Commissioner of Murree, Agha Zahid Abbas Shirazi, said the safety and facilitation of the visiting public are the top priority of the administration. He asked the public to refrain from unessential trips during bad weather.
In addition to this, officers as well as members of all concerned departments are deployed on the ground to help foreign visitors. Help desks with information regarding routes, weather, and other important matters are set up by the district administration, he added.
