Avalanche kills 10 of same family in Lower Chitral as heavy snowfall grips northern Pakistan

At least 10 members of a single family were killed after an avalanche hit the Domel Arandu area of Lower Chitral, officials said on Thursday, confirming that all bodies have been recovered and the region is in mourning.

The Chitral district administration warned that heavy snowfall and extreme winter conditions have sharply increased the risk of avalanches and related incidents in mountainous areas, urging residents to remain cautious.

The first snowfall of the season began in Chitral city after three days of intermittent rain. By evening, rainfall turned into snow across the district, including upper and low-lying areas, causing a sharp drop in temperatures.

In the Lowari Tunnel area, around 10 inches of fresh snow has accumulated. Officials said traffic has been restored using snow chains, but drivers have been advised to exercise extreme caution due to slippery road conditions. Residents were also advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly at night.

The deputy commissioner of Lower Chitral said traffic police, Levies Force and Rescue 1122 teams are deployed at key points and remain on high alert. Under directives from senior officials, Rescue 1122 staff have been placed on emergency duty, with leaves cancelled across Lower Chitral, including at the Lowari Tunnel, Drosh and Kalash Valley.

Severe winter weather has paralysed life across northern regions, blocking roads and stranding locals and tourists. At least two other deaths have been reported in separate weather-related incidents.

Heavy snowfall has been recorded in several Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts, including Mansehra, Upper Galiyat, Shangla, Lower Dir, Mohmand, Kalam, Orakzai, Chitral and Khyber. In Tirah Valley, around 100 vehicles were stranded, while Rescue 1122 teams evacuated dozens of people to safety.

Power outages and road closures were reported in Shangla and Chitral. Tourist destinations such as Naran and Shogran received significant snowfall, attracting visitors despite hazardous conditions.

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In Gilgit-Baltistan, upper areas of Astor recorded up to three feet of snow, cutting off land routes. Snowfall was also reported in Hunza, Nagar, Chipursan and Yasin, while cold conditions intensified in Chilas, Babusar Top, Nanga Parbat, Batogah, Daril and Tangir.

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, snowfall continues in higher altitudes, and parts of the Murree Expressway were partially closed due to snow.

Authorities said rescue and snow clearance operations are ongoing and urged tourists to remain at their current locations until roads are fully cleared, stressing that public safety remains the top priority.