Islamabad, October 5, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory, forecasting a fresh rain spell across various regions of the country starting from Saturday, October 5, 2024.
According to the PMD, a westerly weather system is likely to affect the upper parts of Pakistan, bringing widespread rain, thunderstorms, and possible hailstorms in different areas.
The advisory details that under the influence of this system, various provinces will experience varying weather conditions:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
Rain, wind, and thunderstorms, with the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms, are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and other northern areas from October 5 to 8. Cities such as Mardan, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan may also witness stormy conditions during this period, albeit with occasional gaps.
Punjab and Islamabad:
Rain and thunderstorms are predicted in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, and several other cities in Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad, from October 5 to 8. Occasional gaps in the rain are expected, but isolated hailstorms may occur, making this a period of heightened caution for those in the affected areas.
Kashmir:
The northern region of Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and Rawalakot, is expected to see moderate to heavy rainfall with occasional hailstorms from October 5 to 8. The PMD advises that this rain could lead to rising water levels in local streams and nullahs.
Gilgit-Baltistan:
Similar weather conditions are forecasted in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, with heavy rainfall expected in Diamir, Skardu, Gilgit, and other areas during the same time frame. The rainfall could trigger landslides in vulnerable regions, disrupting road travel.
Balochistan:
Rain and thunderstorms are expected in Quetta, Zhob, and other districts on October 6 and 7. However, southern parts of the province will remain relatively dry and hot during this period.
Sindh:
The PMD forecasts dry and hot weather for most parts of Sindh, with no significant rainfall expected during this spell.
Potential Impacts and Precautions:
The PMD warns of potential flooding in streams and nullahs in hilly areas such as Murree, Galliyat, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan. Landslides may also disrupt roads in these regions, and windstorms could damage weak structures, such as kacha houses and electric poles.
Farmers are advised to plan their activities according to the forecast, while travelers and tourists are urged to exercise caution when traveling through affected areas. All concerned authorities are asked to stay alert and take necessary measures to prevent any untoward incidents. Further updates will be provided if the situation changes.