PMD issues alert for thunderstorms, rain and snowfall under new weather system

Pakistan Weather

Islamabad, December 28, 2025 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a nationwide weather advisory, warning of thunderstorms, rain, and snowfall across large parts of the country from next week due to a developing weather system.

According to the Met Office, a westerly wave is expected to enter western regions of Pakistan on the night of December 29, intensify from December 30, and spread across most upper and central areas by December 31. The system is likely to persist in northern regions until the morning of January 2, 2026, bringing unsettled weather conditions.

Balochistan and Sindh

PMD forecasts rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms in many districts of Balochistan, with snowfall expected over hilly areas including Quetta, Ziarat, Kalat, Zhob, and surrounding regions from December 29 night to December 31. Coastal and southern districts such as Gwadar, Turbat, and Panjgur may also experience rainfall.

In Sindh, isolated light rain or drizzle is expected in Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Jacobabad, Thatta, and nearby areas on December 30.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Rain and thunderstorms, along with moderate to heavy snowfall in upper districts, are likely in Chitral, Swat, Dir, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and adjoining areas from December 30 to January 1, with intermittent breaks.

Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir

The PMD predicts rain, thunderstorms, and moderate snowfall in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, including Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and Bagh, from December 30 night to January 2 morning.

Punjab and Islamabad

Rain and thunderstorms are expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several central Punjab districts on December 31 and January 1. Snowfall is likely in Murree and the Galliyat, while southern Punjab may receive scattered rainfall.

Possible Impacts and Advisory

PMD warns that snowfall could lead to road closures and slippery conditions in northern tourist destinations. There is also a risk of landslides and avalanches in hilly regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official updates.

Meanwhile, fog conditions are expected to ease in parts of Punjab and upper Sindh, while daytime temperatures may drop further after the wet spell.