Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast dust storms, thunderstorms and rain in several upper parts of Pakistan from May 10 to May 12 due to a fresh westerly wave expected to enter the country this weekend.
According to the PMD, the weather system is likely to approach northwestern regions on May 10 and persist in upper areas until the night of May 12.
Rain and thunderstorms expected in multiple regions
The Met Office said dust-thunderstorm and rain are expected in various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including:
• Chitral
• Dir
• Swat
• Kalam
• Shangla
• Kohistan
• Malakand
• Mansehra
• Abbottabad
• Peshawar
• Kohat
• Kurram
• Hangu
Rain and thunderstorms are also forecast in parts of Punjab and Islamabad, including:
• Murree
• Galiyat
• Rawalpindi
• Attock
• Chakwal
• Jhelum
• Sargodha
• Faisalabad
• Lahore
• Gujranwala
• Sialkot
• Narowal
The weather conditions are expected from the evening of May 10 through May 12 with occasional gaps.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir also likely to receive rain
The PMD further predicted rain-wind and thunderstorms in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir from May 11 to May 13.
Affected areas may include:
• Skardu
• Hunza
• Gilgit
• Diamir
• Astore
• Neelum Valley
• Muzaffarabad
• Bagh
• Kotli
• Mirpur
Relief expected from heatwave in upper regions
The PMD said the incoming weather system is likely to provide temporary relief from ongoing hot weather conditions in upper parts of the country.
However, very hot and dry weather is expected to continue in southern regions, including southern Punjab, Sindh and parts of Balochistan.
PMD warns of wind damage and landslides
The weather department warned that strong winds and lightning could damage weak infrastructure such as:
• Electric poles
• Billboards
• Solar panels
The PMD also cautioned about possible landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir during the forecast period.
Farmers and travelers advised to remain cautious
Farmers have been advised to manage crop activities carefully, particularly wheat harvesting operations, in view of the expected dust storms and rainfall.
Tourists and travelers were also urged to avoid unnecessary travel and remain cautious during the adverse weather conditions.
The PMD advised all concerned authorities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incidents during the forecast period.