The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a forecast for a new spell of heavy rains and thunderstorms across the country, commencing from April 10, 2024.
The anticipated weather pattern is expected to persist until April 15, with intermittent breaks.
A westerly wave is projected to enter the upper regions of Pakistan on April 10, followed by another robust westerly wave on April 12, likely to envelop most parts of the country by April 13, lasting until April 15. The forecast indicates a wide geographical impact, encompassing Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Sindh, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, and others are expected to experience rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms from April 10 to 15. Similarly, in Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, areas such as Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Neelum Valley, and Muzaffarabad are forecasted to witness similar weather conditions during the same period.
Punjab and Islamabad/Rawalpindi are likely to witness rain, wind, and thunderstorms in various districts, including Murree, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, from April 10 to 15. Additionally, Balochistan is expected to experience rain, wind, and thunderstorms in several districts such as Quetta, Chaman, and Gawadar from April 12 to 14.
The PMD has cautioned about the potential impacts of heavy rainfall, including flash flooding in local nullahs and streams, particularly in the mountainous regions and vulnerable locations. Landslides are also a concern in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan during the forecasted period.
Furthermore, windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning pose risks to standing crops, infrastructure, and tourist activities. Farmers, especially in wheat-harvested areas, are advised to manage their crops accordingly. Tourists are urged to refrain from unnecessary travel during the anticipated wet spell.
As temperatures are expected to drop during the rainy period, all concerned authorities are advised to remain vigilant and undertake necessary measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety.
The PMD’s forecast underscores the significance of preparedness and proactive measures to navigate through the impending weather conditions and minimize adverse impacts on livelihoods and infrastructure across Pakistan.
