Winter in Pakistan gains strength every year during December, bringing colder mornings, chilly nights, foggy conditions, and seasonal changes. Many people wonder on which dates the temperature drops the most and when the real winter begins. This article explains the expected timeline of increasing cold during December, supported by weather patterns, climatic behaviour, and regional trends across the country.
Understanding Winter Timing in Pakistan
Pakistan’s winter does not become severe on a single day. Instead, it intensifies gradually. December is the month when cold waves become more frequent due to:
- Northern snowfall
- Dry and cold winds from Central Asia
- Decrease in daylight duration
- Fog formation in plains
These factors combine, making the second and third week of December the coldest start of the season.
Cold Increase Timeline: From Which Date Will Winter Intensify?
1. Early Winter (December 1 to 7)
During the first week of December, the weather starts turning colder, especially in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Nights become chilly, but daytime temperatures still remain moderate in many regions.
Common weather features in early December:
- Light fog during morning
- Cool winds in evenings
- Slight drop in nighttime temperatures
- Mild cold in Sindh and Balochistan
This week marks the beginning of winter, but not the intense phase yet.
2. Mid-December Cold Wave (December 8 to 15)
This is the period when most cities start experiencing noticeable cold. Cold waves enter Pakistan from the north, impacting temperatures across the plains.
Expected conditions during this week:
- Sharp fall in minimum temperature
- Stronger cold winds
- Morning fog becomes thicker
- First snowfall expected in northern areas
- Heating demand increases
By December 10, many regions feel a strong shift in weather as mercury drops further. This date is often considered the start of true winter conditions in Pakistan.
3. Peak Winter Begins (December 16 to 25)
This is the period when cold becomes severe across Pakistan.
Why does cold peak after December 15?
- Repeated cold waves
- Snowfall in mountains
- Longer nights and shorter days
- No monsoon warmth in atmosphere
During these days, the effects of winter are fully felt.
Common weather patterns:
- Dense fog in Punjab and KP
- Freezing nights in north
- Cold winds in Sindh and Balochistan
- Heavy demand for warm clothing
- Reduction in visibility on highways
For many cities, December 20 onward is the coldest start of the winter season.
4. End-of-Month Freeze (December 26 to 31)
The last days of December usually bring extreme cold, especially in:
- Lahore
- Islamabad
- Rawalpindi
- Gujranwala
- Faisalabad
- Sialkot
- Peshawar
- Quetta
- Northern mountains
Snowfall in the north increases the cold further in lower regions.
Region-Wise December Cold Intensification
Punjab
Punjab experiences increasing fog and cold starting December 10, with severe cold from December 20 onward. Cities around the river belt, like Lahore, Sialkot, and Faisalabad, feel stronger cold due to moisture and fog.
Sindh
Sindh has mild early winter, but cold increases between December 12 and December 18. Karachi becomes noticeably cold after December 20, with breezy nights and cooler mornings.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)
Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, and Hazara division start feeling cold from December 8, but severe cold begins around December 15–20, especially after snowfall in the upper KP.
Balochistan
Quetta, Ziarat, and Kalat become cold early due to higher elevation. The strongest cold wave arrives between December 10–15, with temperatures dropping near freezing.
Northern Areas (GB)
Gilgit Baltistan enters peak winter early. December 1 onward, the cold becomes intense. After December 10, heavy snowfall is common, and temperatures can fall below freezing.
Northern Areas (GB)
Gilgit Baltistan enters peak winter early. December 1 onward, the cold becomes intense. After December 10, heavy snowfall is common, and temperatures can fall below freezing.
Fog and Smog: A December Reality
December is the month when fog becomes severe, especially in Punjab. Reduced visibility creates difficulties for:
- Motorway travel
- Flights
- Daily morning routines
Smog may worsen due to cold air trapping pollutants. This increases health risks for children and older adults.
Health Effects of Strong December Cold
Severe cold between December 15 and 31 causes common health issues such as:
- Flu
- Cough
- Dry skin
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Breathing problems
People should take precautions such as warm clothing, hot drinks, moisturizers, and safe use of heaters.
How to Prepare for Rising Winter Cold
1. Wear Proper Layered Clothing
Layering helps retain body heat more effectively.
2. Start Winter Diet
Add dry fruits, soups, honey, ginger tea, and warm food to your daily routine.
3. Ensure Heater Safety
Use heaters safely to avoid fire hazards and suffocation.
4. Reduce Early Morning Travel
Fog reduces visibility, making travel risky before sunrise.
Conclusion: December Cold Peaks After Mid-Month
Winter intensifies gradually across Pakistan, starting mild in early December but becoming severe between December 15 and December 25. By December 20 onward, most regions experience the strongest cold waves of the season. Preparing before this period helps ensure comfort, safety, and better health during the winter months.