Islamabad, March 7, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a weather advisory on Thursday, forecasting the entry of another robust weather system into southwest Balochistan from March 9, 2024. The announcement comes as the country experiences the effects of a shallow westerly wave impacting the upper regions.
According to the PMD’s synoptic analysis, the prevailing shallow westerly wave is currently affecting the upper parts of Pakistan. However, the meteorological agency predicts the introduction of another westerly wave into the southwest of Baluchistan from the night of March 9. This is expected to bring a significant shift in weather patterns across various regions of the country.
As of Thursday, the weather forecast indicates partly cloudy conditions with the possibility of light rain, wind, and thunderstorms. Additionally, light snowfall over hills is expected at isolated locations in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, Kashmir, and adjoining hilly areas. The rest of the country is expected to experience cold and dry weather.
Looking ahead to Friday, March 8, 2024, the PMD anticipates cold and dry weather prevailing in most parts of the country, with northern regions experiencing very cold conditions. Partly cloudy weather, accompanied by light rain, wind, and thunderstorms (with light snowfall over hills), is expected at isolated places in Gilgit Baltistan and adjoining hilly areas.
The weather report for the past 24 hours indicates that cold and dry weather dominated most parts of the country, with northern regions experiencing very cold conditions. Balochistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, upper Punjab, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan witnessed rain and thunderstorms, accompanied by snowfall in hilly areas.
Rainfall measurements (in millimeters) include Zhob (Balochistan) 10, Kalam (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) 07, Dir (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) 06, Malam Jabba (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) 05, and various other locations across Punjab and Kashmir. Snowfall measurements (in inches) were recorded in Kalam (3.5), Malamjabba (1), and Hunza (0.5 inch).
Minimum temperatures recorded today include Leh (-9°C), Kalam (-7°C), Astore (-3°C), and several other locations such as Bagrote, Drosh, Hunza, and Skardu (-2°C).
The PMD urges residents and authorities to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the weather conditions are expected to undergo significant changes in the coming days. It emphasizes the importance of preparedness, particularly in regions prone to adverse weather events.