Karachi, March 8, 2024 – Pakistan is gearing up for a series of potent weather systems expected to hit the country from March 9, 2024, bringing heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a comprehensive forecast detailing the anticipated weather patterns across different regions.
The PMD predicts that a westerly wave will enter Balochistan on March 9, extending to the upper parts of the country by March 11, followed by another wave on March 12. The impact of these weather systems is expected to be significant, affecting various provinces and regions.
Balochistan:
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm with isolated heavy falls in Turbat, Kech, Gwadar, and other areas on the evening of March 9 and 10.
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm (with snowfall over the hills) is expected in Chagi, Noushki, Washuk, and other regions from March 10 to 13 with occasional gaps.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm (with snowfall over the hills) is expected in Waziristan, Kohat, Lakki Marwat, and other areas from the evening of March 10, continuing through March 14.
• Isolated heavy falls and hailstorms are anticipated on March 13 and 14.
Gilgit Baltistan/Kashmir:
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm (with snowfall over the hills) is expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and other areas from March 11 to 15.
Punjab/Islamabad:
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm with heavy falls is expected in Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, and other regions from March 11 to 14.
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm is also expected in Multan, Kot Addu, Layyah, and other areas on March 13. Isolated hailstorms are likely during this period.
Sindh:
• Rain-wind/thunderstorm is expected in Sukkur, Jacobabad, Kashmore, Larkana, and Dadu on March 10 and 12 during the evening/night.
• Dry/windy weather is expected in southern parts of the province.
Possible Impacts and Advisories:
• Flash flooding may occur in local nullahs of Gwadar, Ketch, Turbat, and Panjgur on the night of March 9 and 10.
• Snowfall may disrupt traffic flows in northern parts of Balochistan from March 10 to 13.
• Heavy rain with isolated heavy snowfall may cause road closures in various northern regions on March 13 and 14.
• Landslides in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan may affect vulnerable points.
• Wind-thunderstorm/hailstorm may damage loose structures such as electric poles, vehicles, and solar panels.
• Tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and farmers are urged to remain cautious about their crops.
• All concerned authorities are advised to stay “ALERT” and take necessary measures to prevent untoward situations during the forecast period.
As Pakistan prepares for these weather challenges, residents are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and follow updates from meteorological authorities and local administrations.