Islamabad, November 12, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its weather forecast for Wednesday, November 13, predicting mostly dry conditions across Pakistan with cold temperatures in the hilly regions.
However, the forecast indicates that certain areas, including Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, may experience cloudy weather with the possibility of rain and snowfall over higher elevations by evening or nighttime.
The PMD also highlighted that smog is expected to persist across the plains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and most parts of Punjab. Dense foggy conditions are anticipated during the morning and nighttime hours, potentially impacting visibility on roads and travel conditions in affected areas.
According to the PMD’s synoptic analysis, a continental air mass is influencing most parts of the country. Additionally, a shallow westerly wave has been detected over northern regions, contributing to the likelihood of rain and snow in Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This westerly system may bring a respite from dry weather in these regions but is unlikely to impact the central and southern parts of the country.
For Tuesday, November 12, the PMD predicted similar weather patterns, with predominantly dry conditions across most of Pakistan. The hilly areas are expected to experience colder temperatures, while smog continues to affect the plains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, accompanied by dense fog in the early and late hours.
Over the past 24 hours, dry conditions prevailed in most areas, with cold temperatures observed in higher altitudes. However, some regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Kashmir, experienced rain accompanied by thunderstorms. Rainfall data for these areas indicated Hunza received 6 mm of rain, Bunji 2 mm, and Gilgit 1 mm in Gilgit-Baltistan. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Malam Jabba recorded 5 mm, Dir (Upper) 4 mm, and Kalam 3 mm. Meanwhile, in Kashmir, Kotli received 3 mm, with smaller amounts recorded in Garhi Dupatta and Muzaffarabad.
The PMD also reported that some of Pakistan’s lowest minimum temperatures were recorded on Tuesday, with Leh experiencing a minimum of -1°C and Kalam at 2°C. Such temperatures signal the approach of colder winter months, especially in the country’s mountainous regions.
For residents in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the PMD advises caution due to potential smog and dense fog, especially during early morning and night hours, which could disrupt travel and health conditions. Travelers heading to northern areas should prepare for possible rain and snowfall, particularly at higher altitudes in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Overall, with dry and cold conditions prevailing across Pakistan, residents are advised to take precautions against smog in the plains and remain mindful of travel advisories in the north as winter approaches.