The Pakistan Meteorological Department has denied social media reports that the country would experience the coldest weather in its ‘100-year history’ for four days after snowfall in some parts of Saudi Arabia

“The PMD informs the people that recent claims circulating on social media, which suggest that the coldest nights and days in Pakistan’s 100-year history will occur between January 12 and January 15, and that snowfall similar to Saudi Arabia could take place in various districts of central Punjab, are baseless and unverified,” it said in a statement.

In November 2024, snowfall blanketed the Al-Jawf region of Saudi Arabia for the first time. The weather change transformed the desert scenery into an extraordinary winter wonderland.

The snowfall was part of a “broader weather system” that has brought significant rainfall, hail, and even created waterfalls, rejuvenating the usually parched valleys, the Saudi Press Agency had said.

The Met Office clarified that there was “no likelihood of snowfall” in the central districts of Punjab, as such areas “are not geographically or meteorologically” suited for such conditions.

Cold and dry weather was expected in most parts of the country; however, there has been no confirmation of “extraordinary cold or historical temperature lows.”

On January 11, the department said Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Okara, Sahiwal, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujranwala, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Pakpattan, and surrounding areas might experience light rain or drizzle accompanied by strong winds at certain locations.

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In its statement on Monday, the Met Office clarified that it provides forecasts and reports to the people “based solely on verified and authentic data.” The PMD warned that such rumours can create panic among the people and should be avoided.

It urged the people to rely only on the PMD’s website or official sources for information regarding weather conditions. “Do not believe news disseminated through unverified and unofficial sources.”