Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is bracing itself for a potential thunderstorm with rain and strong winds on Thursday, November 9, 2023, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The PMD, in its daily weather report, has issued a warning indicating the likelihood of rain, wind, and thunderstorms in several regions of the country, along with the possibility of snowfall in mountainous areas.
The PMD’s forecast covers a wide geographical area, extending beyond Islamabad to include Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and upper/central Punjab. This weather pattern is associated with the arrival of a westerly wave, which is currently impacting western parts of Pakistan and is expected to make its way towards the upper regions of the country.
In addition to the anticipated rain, wind, and thunderstorm activity, isolated hailstorms may also occur in these regions, adding a layer of unpredictability to the weather conditions. The PMD’s report further warns of fog and smog in some of the plain areas of Punjab during the morning hours. However, the rest of the country can expect dry weather during this period.
Over the past 24 hours, the weather in Pakistan has been relatively dry in most parts of the country, with cold temperatures prevailing in the northern regions. There were isolated instances of rain and thunderstorm activity in western Balochistan, Jacobabad, and Faisalabad.
The recorded rainfall amounts in millimeters (mm) were as follows:
• Balochistan: Kalat 09 mm, Barkhan 05 mm, Quetta (Shiekh Manda 02 mm), Dalbandin 01 mm.
• Sindh: Jacobabad 06 mm.
• Punjab: Faisalabad 01 mm.
Furthermore, the recorded lowest minimum temperatures (°C) in some of the northern areas were as follows:
• Leh -04°C
• Skardu -03°C
• Babusar 00°C
These weather conditions are typical of the transition period between seasons in Pakistan when the country experiences shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns. It’s essential for residents and travelers in the affected regions to stay informed about the changing weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.
Given the unpredictability of thunderstorms and hailstorms, it is advisable to be prepared for sudden changes in weather, which may include heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. Motorists are urged to exercise caution on the roads, and outdoor activities should be planned with the possibility of inclement weather in mind.
As the westerly wave continues to affect the region, it is important for individuals and local authorities to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and advisories provided by the Pakistan Meteorological Department. This will help ensure the safety of the public and minimize the impact of adverse weather conditions on daily activities and infrastructure.
