The latest forecast from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) of widespread rain and snowfall across large parts of the country is both a blessing and a warning. From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Balochistan, from Gilgit-Baltistan to Azad Kashmir, and even in Islamabad and northern Punjab, the approaching weather system promises relief from dry conditions while simultaneously posing serious risks to life, infrastructure, and mobility.
For an agrarian country like Pakistan, rainfall is always welcome. It replenishes water tables, supports winter crops, and helps mitigate drought conditions that have plagued many regions in recent years. Snowfall in northern areas also plays a crucial role in feeding rivers and reservoirs, ensuring water availability for downstream communities in the months ahead. However, as experience repeatedly shows, poorly managed weather events can quickly turn into disasters.
The forecast of heavy snowfall in Naran, Kaghan, Kalam, and Chitral is particularly concerning. These regions are already vulnerable due to difficult terrain, limited road access, and fragile infrastructure. Past winters have shown how quickly communities can become isolated when roads are blocked by snow. Medical emergencies, food shortages, and power outages often follow. If authorities do not act swiftly to clear roads, pre-position supplies, and ensure communication lines remain open, the cost will be borne by ordinary citizens.
Urban centers are not immune either. Cities like Peshawar, Mardan, Islamabad, and areas of Punjab regularly struggle with drainage problems. Even moderate rainfall can flood streets, disrupt traffic, and damage homes. The arrival of rain should not be treated as an unexpected event it is a seasonal reality that requires planning. Unfortunately, municipal preparedness in many cities remains weak, with clogged drains, uncollected waste, and poorly maintained infrastructure turning rain into chaos.
Balochistan’s situation is equally fragile. Areas such as Qalat, Mastung, Zhob, and Quetta face unique challenges due to sparse populations, long distances between towns, and limited emergency response capacity. Snowfall in places like Ziarat and Chaman may look picturesque, but it can be devastating for local livelihoods if transport routes are cut and markets become inaccessible.
The PMD’s warning is therefore more than just a weather update it is a test of governance. Issuing forecasts is only the first step. What matters most are how effectively provincial and local administrations respond. Are rescue teams on standby? Are hospitals prepared? Are snow-clearing machines and emergency supplies positioned in high-risk areas? These are the questions that determine whether a weather event becomes a manageable inconvenience or a full-blown crisis.
Citizens, too, have a role to play. Tourists must avoid unnecessary travel to hilly areas, while residents should follow safety advisories, stock essential items, and stay informed. Social media and mobile alerts should be used responsibly to spread verified information rather than panic.
Pakistan has suffered too many weather-related tragedies in recent years from floods to heat waves to landslides. The coming rains and snowfall offer an opportunity to prove that lessons have been learned. Preparedness, coordination, and timely action can transform this challenge into a success story. Nature cannot be controlled, but its impact can certainly be managed.