Islamabad, November 8, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted light snowfall over high mountainous areas for Saturday, November 9, 2024, marking a shift towards colder conditions in Pakistan’s northern regions.
In its detailed weather outlook, the PMD stated that while most parts of the country will experience dry weather, the mountainous regions, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan, are likely to witness light rain and snowfall during the evening and night.
According to the PMD, the weather is expected to remain mainly dry across the majority of the country on Saturday, with temperatures dropping to chilly levels in hilly areas during the morning and night hours. However, the PMD forecast indicates that a shallow westerly wave may move across northern Pakistan, leading to partly cloudy skies and light snowfall in Gilgit-Baltistan. This snowfall, although light, is anticipated to create a picturesque, wintry landscape across the region’s higher elevations.
In addition to the anticipated snowfall, the PMD has warned of ongoing smog across many areas of Punjab. Dense fog is also expected in isolated patches, with some regions likely to experience reduced visibility during the early morning and night hours. This forecast has raised concerns about road safety and potential disruptions, prompting the PMD to advise caution for travelers, especially in smog-prone areas of Punjab.
Explaining the synoptic situation, the PMD noted that continental air currently prevails over most of Pakistan, with a shallow westerly wave likely to impact northern areas starting tomorrow evening. This wave is expected to bring the forecasted light precipitation and snowfall, temporarily alleviating dry conditions in some northern regions.
For Friday, November 8, 2024, the PMD predicts largely dry weather across the country, though mountainous regions may experience slightly cooler temperatures. Gilgit-Baltistan, in particular, may witness partly cloudy weather with light rain and snowfall over the high mountains. The PMD has emphasized that while the anticipated precipitation will be light, it is enough to signal the onset of winter in the northern areas.
Over the past 24 hours, dry weather dominated most of the country, with smog and fog affecting parts of Punjab. The PMD recorded some of the lowest minimum temperatures in Leh (0°C) and Skardu (1°C), underscoring the cold conditions in the hilly areas.
As winter approaches, the PMD’s weather predictions suggest that Pakistan’s mountainous areas may soon experience a wintry charm, with light snowfall marking the beginning of the season. The PMD will continue to monitor weather patterns and provide updates on any significant changes.
