Meteorological Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Services for Pakistan and Afghanistan

In late February 2025, a severe winter storm triggered by a cut-off cold vortex struck the southeastern parts of Central Asia and northern West Asia, bringing widespread rain and snow, sharp temperature drops, and strong winds. The slow movement of the cold vortex, the intense convergence of warm and cold air masses, and the significant topographic lifting effect of the Pamir Plateau led to the superposition of multiple hazards—torrential snow, gale-force winds, and drastic cooling—making the forecasting of precipitation intensity and geographic distribution extremely challenging. In response to this complex weather event, the National Meteorological Centre (NMC) initiated intensive analysis and forecasting in advance. Relying on global numerical weather prediction models and multi-source observational data including Fengyun satellites, NMC accurately predicted the timing of rain and snow, the areas of heavy snowfall, and the magnitude of temperature drops, and promptly delivered refined forecast service products to Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other countries. Upon receiving the forecasts, the counterparts gave high praise, explicitly stating that "this was a very good prediction," and expressed a strong willingness to further access NMC's forecasting models. This service secured valuable time for disaster preparedness for countries along the Belt and Road, substantially enhancing the proactivity and precision of regional meteorological disaster prevention and mitigation. It stands as another powerful practice demonstrating China's meteorological services deeply engaging in global meteorological governance and safeguarding the livelihoods and security of communities along the Belt and Road.

Rain and Snow Forecast for West Asia and Central Asia, February 25–27, 2025