Islamabad, October 29, 2024 — The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released the weather forecast for Wednesday, October 30, 2024, indicating generally dry conditions across most of the country, with isolated areas expected to experience light rain, thunderstorms, and even light snowfall in high-altitude regions.
According to the PMD, a westerly wave is currently influencing weather patterns over the upper parts of Pakistan, bringing the possibility of light rain and windy conditions in select northern areas. While dry weather is expected to dominate much of the country, there are predictions for partly cloudy skies and sporadic light rain accompanied by windstorms and thunderstorms in regions of Gilgit Baltistan, where light snowfall may occur over higher mountains.
Regional Forecast Highlights:
• Gilgit Baltistan: Partly cloudy conditions with potential for light rain and thunderstorms, especially in elevated areas where light snowfall is also anticipated.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir: The PMD forecasts a mix of dry weather and cloudy intervals, with chances of rain and thunderstorms in the upper regions, specifically in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir.
• Rest of Pakistan: Most areas, particularly the southern and central regions, including Punjab and Sindh, are expected to experience predominantly dry weather with clear skies. No significant rainfall is forecast for these regions, keeping weather conditions relatively stable.
The weather conditions over the last 24 hours were also largely dry, with hot temperatures reported in Sindh, particularly in Shaheed Benazirabad and Mithi, where maximum temperatures reached 41°C and 40°C, respectively. However, isolated thunderstorms and rain were recorded in parts of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Kashmir. Rainfall statistics include Malam Jabba with 50 mm, Saidu Sharif with 49 mm, Lower Dir with 43 mm, and Balakot with 31 mm. In Gilgit Baltistan, Astore received 33 mm, while Muzaffarabad in Kashmir recorded up to 11 mm in some locations.
Rainfall Breakdown (Past 24 Hours):
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Malam Jabba (50 mm), Saidu Sharif (49 mm), Lower Dir (43 mm), Upper Dir (22 mm), and Balakot (31 mm).
• Gilgit Baltistan: Astore (33 mm), Chillas (10 mm), Skardu (8 mm), Bunji (6 mm), and Gilgit (4 mm).
• Kashmir: Muzaffarabad City (11 mm) and Airport (7 mm).
The PMD advises residents in the northern mountainous regions to exercise caution, especially in areas likely to experience rain and light snowfall, as weather conditions could lead to slippery roads and low visibility in high-altitude passes. As the autumn season transitions, cooler temperatures are expected in the north, while southern regions continue to experience warmer conditions.