Karachi, December 15, 2023 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) released a weather forecast on Friday, predicting light rain in northeastern Punjab on Saturday, December 16, 2023.
According to the PMD, mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most plain areas of the country, with cloudy conditions in upper areas. Additionally, rain coupled with snowfall over high mountains is anticipated in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Kashmir. Light rain or drizzle is also expected in the Potohar region and northeastern Punjab during the specified period.
While the upper regions are set to experience precipitation, the plain areas, especially in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh, may witness fog and smog during morning and night hours. The PMD warns of dense fog persisting over certain plain areas of Punjab, emphasizing the need for caution while commuting.
The synoptic situation, as described by the PMD, indicates the influence of a shallow westerly wave affecting western and upper parts of the country. This weather system is expected to persist over the next 24 hours, contributing to the forecasted conditions.
As for December 15, 2023, the PMD forecasts mainly cold and dry weather in most plain areas, with cloudy conditions in the western parts of the country. However, the northwestern Balochistan region, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pothohar region, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan are expected to experience cloudy weather with chances of light rain, including snowfall over high mountains. The plains of Punjab may also see dense fog and smog during this period.
Reflecting on the weather in the past 24 hours, the report notes that cold and dry conditions prevailed over most parts of the country, with particularly very cold temperatures in northern areas. Cloudy weather with rain occurred at isolated places in Balochistan, with recorded rainfall in Qalat (2mm), Quetta (Sumangli), Dalbandin, and Nokundi (1mm each).
The recorded lowest minimum temperatures during this period include Leh at -11°C, Skardu at -08°C, Kalam and Gilgit at -05°C, Gupis, Srinagar, Hunza, Dir, and Astore at -03°C.
Citizens and travelers are advised to stay updated with the latest weather reports and exercise caution, especially in areas prone to fog and precipitation. The PMD continues to monitor the evolving weather patterns to provide timely and accurate information to the public.
