Islamabad, April 8, 2026 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a nationwide weather alert warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flooding in several regions, raising concerns for both urban and hilly areas.
According to the PMD, intense rain spells on April 8 may trigger flash floods in local streams and nullahs across Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as popular hill stations including Murree and Galiyat. Authorities have also warned of possible landslides in mountainous regions, posing risks to travelers and residents.
Urban flooding is likely in major cities such as Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujrat, Gujranwala, and Sialkot, where drainage systems may come under pressure due to heavy downpours. In addition, strong windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning strikes could damage vulnerable infrastructure, including electric poles, billboards, and solar panels.
The department further cautioned that agricultural areas in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could face crop damage due to hailstorms and gusty winds during the ongoing weather system.
Synoptic Situation
The current weather pattern is being driven by a strong westerly wave affecting upper and central parts of Pakistan, which is expected to persist in northern regions until April 9.
Weather Forecast
On Wednesday, rain with wind and thunderstorms, including isolated heavy falls and hailstorms, is expected in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, upper Punjab, Islamabad, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Other parts of the country are likely to experience dry weather.
By Thursday, conditions are expected to improve, with mostly dry weather across Pakistan. However, isolated rain and thunderstorms may still occur in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northeast Punjab, the Pothohar region, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
Past 24-Hour Weather Overview
Over the past day, widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and occasional hailstorms was recorded across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, and Kashmir, while Sindh remained largely dry except for light rain in Jacobabad.
The PMD has advised citizens to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas, and stay updated with official weather advisories to minimize risks.