April weather twist: Pakistan braces for 5-day thunderstorms spell

Pakistan Weather

Islamabad, April 4, 2026 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted a fresh and widespread spell of rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms across Pakistan from April 5 to April 9, 2026, under what experts describe as a significant April weather phenomenon driven by a strong western disturbance.

According to the Met Office, the incoming weather system will first impact Balochistan, where rain, gusty winds, thunderstorms, and isolated heavy falls with hailstorms are expected in multiple districts including Quetta, Chaman, Khuzdar, Zhob, and Kalat from the night of April 5 through April 7. Coastal regions such as Gwadar and Pasni are also likely to experience rain and thunderstorms on April 6.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, widespread rain and thunderstorms are forecast from April 6 to April 9, accompanied by snowfall over mountainous areas like Chitral, Swat, and Kalam. The PMD has warned of heavy downpours and hailstorms at scattered locations, particularly on April 7 and 8, raising concerns about landslides and flash flooding in vulnerable regions.

Similarly, upper and central parts of Punjab, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sialkot, are expected to receive widespread rain-wind thunderstorms from the evening of April 6 through April 9. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms are particularly likely in the Pothohar region and upper districts on April 7 and 8. Southern Punjab districts such as Multan, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan may also experience thunderstorms and isolated hailstorms during April 6 and 7.

In Sindh, scattered rain and thunderstorms are expected in districts including Sukkur, Larkana, and Jacobabad, while cities such as Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, and Karachi may receive light to moderate rainfall with occasional thunderstorms on April 6.

Northern areas including Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir will also witness widespread rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall over mountains between April 5 and April 9. Heavy falls and hailstorms are expected at isolated locations, increasing the risk of landslides in hilly terrain.

The PMD has issued multiple warnings for potential hazards during this period. Flash flooding is likely in parts of northeast Balochistan and local streams across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa between April 6 and 8. Urban flooding may also occur in major cities including Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gujranwala, and Sialkot during peak rainfall days.

Authorities have cautioned that strong winds, lightning, and hailstorms could damage vulnerable infrastructure such as electric poles, solar panels, and billboards. Agricultural areas in پنجاب, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh are also at risk, with standing crops vulnerable to hail and wind damage.

Tourists and travelers have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly in mountainous regions prone to landslides. The PMD further noted that daytime temperatures are expected to drop across the country due to the widespread cloud cover and rainfall.

Relevant authorities have been directed to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures to mitigate risks and ensure public safety during this significant weather event.