A cold wave is expected to continue across most parts of Pakistan, with very cold conditions prevailing in hilly areas, the Pakistan Meteorological Department said Thursday.

According to the PMD daily report, continental air dominates much of the country, while a shallow westerly wave is affecting northern regions.

On Thursday, cold and dry weather is forecast for most areas, with light rain and snowfall likely in isolated locations in Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Cold winds are expected during the evening and night across Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan.

Friday will see a continuation of cold and dry conditions, with temperatures expected to drop further in Sindh during the daytime. Frost is likely to form in parts of Islamabad, upper Punjab, and the plains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the morning hours.

Over the past 24 hours, cold and dry weather prevailed nationwide, with isolated rain and snow reported in Gilgit-Baltistan. Recorded rainfall included 2 mm in Skardu and 1 mm in Chilas. Snowfall was recorded at 4 inches in Astore and 1 inch in Skardu.

The lowest temperatures recorded were -9°C in Leh, -6°C in Kalam, Kalat, Ziarat, and Gopis, and -5°C in Quetta. Other cold spots included Skardu, Malam Jabba, Dir, and Chitral at -4°C, while Parachinar, Hunza, Drosh, and Astore recorded -3°C.

Authorities have advised residents, especially those in frost-affected areas, to take precautions as the cold spell continues.