Islamabad, February 17, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather forecast predicting heavy rainfall for Murree on Sunday, February 18, 2024, cautioning residents and authorities to brace for potential disruptions and road closures in the region.
According to the PMD’s weather forecast for Sunday, February 18, 2024, a weather system is expected to bring partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with rain, wind, and thunderstorms, including snowfall over mountains. The affected areas encompass Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region, Islamabad, Punjab, and northern Balochistan.
Specifically, intermittent moderate to heavy rainfall or snowfall is anticipated in Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, and the Galliyat region. The forecast also includes the possibility of isolated hailstorms during the specified period.
As of Saturday, February 17, 2024, the current weather is predominantly cold and dry across most parts of the country, with partly cloudy to cloudy conditions in upper regions. Isolated instances of rain, wind, gusty winds, and thunderstorms, including snowfall over mountains, are expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region, Kashmir, and adjoining hilly areas during the evening and night.
The meteorological office has issued a warning that heavy rain and snowfall may lead to disruptions and road closures in various areas, including Murree, Galiyat, Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli from February 18 to 20. There is also a possibility of landslides in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan during the forecast period.
Explaining the synoptic situation, the PMD stated that a strong westerly wave is expected to approach western parts on the night of February 17 and may grip the upper and central parts of the country on February 18.
Over the past 24 hours, cold and dry weather prevailed over most parts of the country, with very cold temperatures in northern regions. The lowest minimum temperatures recorded during this period include Skardu at -05°C, Leh and Kalam at -04°C, Gupis at -03°C, and Bagrote at -02°C.
Residents and authorities in the affected regions are urged to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions, take necessary precautions, and adhere to any advisories or warnings issued by the local authorities. The PMD will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
