Severe cold grips Gilgit-Baltistan

The entire region of Gilgit-Baltistan is gripped with severe cold, which has sharply brought down the mercury. The peaks of mountains are covered with snow, as snowfall has begun and it could last till March. The upper portions of the region have received heavy snow.
Due to abrupt change in the weather, seasonal diseases have broken out, affecting mostly children and the elderly.
The change in weather has led to increase in need for fuel and also rise in its price. The demand for firewood has increased in the area. The local markets have put blankets and warm clothings on sale.