PESHAWAR – The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has released a harrowing preliminary report regarding the heavy rains and snowfall that have battered the province since January 22. The severe weather has triggered a series of fatal incidents, leaving families devastated across multiple districts.
Casualties and Structural Damages
According to the latest KP PDMA Weather Update January 2026, the relentless weather has caused avalanches, landslides, and roof collapses.
- Loss of Life: A total of 9 individuals have lost their lives.
- Victim Demographics: The deceased include 7 children, one man, and one woman.
- Injuries: One child has been reported injured.
- Property Damage: The report indicates that 5 houses have been partially damaged due to the intensity of the storms.
- Hard-Hit Areas: These tragic incidents occurred in the districts of Upper and Lower Chitral, Malakand, Shangla, and Khyber.
Also Read: Record Snowfall in Swat: 20-Year Milestone Broken as Tourists Face Challenges
Road Clearances and Emergency Response
Despite challenging conditions, the KP PDMA Weather Update for January 2026 reports steady progress in restoring connectivity across affected areas. Most previously blocked highways in various districts have now been reopened for general traffic, easing movement and access.
In the upper reaches, heavy machinery continues to operate to clear remaining routes that were blocked due to heavy snowfall. Efforts remain focused on restoring full access to these areas.
Meanwhile, PDMA, Rescue 1122, and district administrations are working in close coordination to ensure relief operations continue without disruption and support reaches affected communities.
Also Read: Tirah Valley: Rescue 1122 Saves Over 100 Lives Amid Heavy Snow
Relief Operations and Aid Distribution
The Director General (DG) of PDMA has taken immediate notice of the victims’ needs, issuing strict directives for swift assistance.
- Pre-positioned Supplies: District administrations were already equipped with essential relief goods. These include winter-resistant tents, blankets, beds, mattresses, kitchen sets, and other life necessities.
- Compensation for Families: Specific instructions have been sent to the Lower Chitral administration to ensure that financial aid reaches the families of the deceased without delay.
- Speed of Assistance: DG PDMA has ordered all district authorities to accelerate rescue operations and provide immediate support to those displaced.
Urgent Advisory: New Weather Spell Approaching
The relief may be temporary. The KP PDMA Weather Update January 2026 warns that a fresh wave of rain and snow is expected to hit the upper districts starting tomorrow night (Sunday) and will continue intermittently until Tuesday.
Safety Guidelines for the Public:
- Avoid Travel: The public is strongly urged to avoid unnecessary travel.
- Stay Away from Tourist Spots: Avoid visiting sensitive or high-risk tourist destinations.
- Follow Government Alerts: Adhere strictly to the advisories and alerts issued by official institutions.
Emergency Contact
The PDMA’s Emergency Operation Center is fully operational 24/7. For information regarding weather conditions or to report an incident, citizens are encouraged to call the Free Helpline: 1700.
