Islamabad, January 2, 2025 – Islamabad is poised to experience light rain accompanied by cold and dry weather on Friday, January 3, 2025.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), there is a 40% probability of rain in the capital, up from the earlier forecast of 30%. The weather will remain cold and partly cloudy, with occasional light rain or drizzle likely in Islamabad and surrounding areas.
For Thursday, January 2, 2025, similar conditions are expected, with partly cloudy skies and light rain/drizzle forecasted in the region. The PMD has attributed these weather patterns to a frontal weather system currently affecting the upper parts of Pakistan, which is anticipated to persist until January 6.
National Weather Outlook
Thursday Light rain, with snow over mountainous regions, is expected in northern Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Pothohar region, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Moderate to dense fog is likely to continue in most plain areas of Punjab and upper Sindh, causing potential travel disruptions.
Friday Similar weather conditions will prevail on Friday, with rain or snow anticipated over the mountains in northern Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, upper Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Dense fog is expected to persist in Punjab and upper Sindh, affecting visibility.
Recent Weather Summary
Over the past 24 hours, cold and dry weather dominated most parts of the country, with very cold conditions in hilly areas. Light rain or drizzle occurred in select locations, including upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, northern Balochistan, and Murree. Snowfall was recorded in some mountainous regions of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan. Punjab and upper Sindh saw moderate to dense fog, which hindered travel.
Rainfall and Snowfall Statistics
Rainfall (mm):
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Kalam 5, Kakul 3, Chitral and Balakot 2, Patan 1
• Kashmir: Muzaffarabad (Airport and City), Chakothi 3, Garhi Dupatta 2
• Gilgit-Baltistan: Astore 2, Gupis 1
• Punjab: Murree 2
• Balochistan: Chaman 2, Muslim Bagh 1
Snowfall (inches):
• Kalam: 2 inches
• Astore, Gupis: 1 inch each
Lowest Recorded Temperatures (in °C):
• Skardu, Gupis: -9°C
• Leh: -8°C
• Astore: -5°C
• Parachinar: -4°C
• Bunji, Gilgit, Hunza: -3°C
The PMD advises residents to prepare for colder conditions and exercise caution during travel, particularly in areas affected by fog and snowfall. The upcoming weather will add a chill to the start of the new year, with opportunities for scenic snow-covered landscapes in the mountainous regions.