QUETTA(National Times)- A new and intense winter spell is set to enter Balochistan from tonight, bringing light to heavy rain across northern and western districts, with snowfall expected in mountainous areas. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that a fresh western weather system will remain active from the night of January 30 to February 3, with rain and snowfall likely in various parts of Balochistan until January 31. According to the PMD, a shallow westerly wave is moving into western and northern regions, affecting Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern Balochistan. In Balochistan, districts including Chagai, Noshki, Quetta, Pishin, Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Ziarat, Harnai, Zhob, and surrounding areas may experience light to heavy rain, while snowfall is expected in hilly and high-altitude regions. Gusty winds and thunderstorms are also likely during this period. The PMD and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have cautioned that snowfall may make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents, while landslides are also possible in mountainous areas. Authorities have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and urged drivers to exercise caution during rain and snowfall. Tourists heading to Ziarat, Quetta, and other hilly destinations have been asked to take special care. All deputy commissioners have been directed to adopt precautionary measures to deal with any potential emergency situation.