Karachi, April 24, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a new weather warning for Balochistan, predicting a significant rain spell that may lead to flooding across various parts of the region until April 27, 2024.
According to the latest forecasts, the impending weather conditions are expected to bring isolated to moderate, and at times heavy, rainfall, which could trigger flash floods in local nullahs and streams. Particularly at risk are the areas of Noushki, Chagai, Kharan, Turbat, Kech, Gwadar, Awaran, Ziarat, Pishin, Harnai, Zhob, Barkhan, and Naseerabad, starting from tonight.
The PMD also warned that from April 27 to April 29, similar conditions could impact Dir, Swat, Chitral, Manshera, Kohistan, and the region of Kashmir. The department highlighted the potential for landslides in the upper reaches of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan, posing threats to vulnerable locations during this period.
Furthermore, the PMD cautioned about the likelihood of windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning strikes during this time, which could endanger human lives, damage crops, and destroy loose structures such as electric poles, vehicles, and solar panels.
In detailing the synoptic situation, the PMD noted that a westerly wave is currently influencing the western parts of the country and is expected to extend its influence to most upper and central regions by April 26. On Friday, the forecast predicts rain accompanied by windstorms or thunderstorms, with isolated hailstorms likely in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Heavy falls are also anticipated in northeastern Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
As for the immediate weather outlook for Thursday, April 25, rain with windstorms or thunderstorms is expected to prevail in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, south Punjab, and upper Sindh. Northwest Balochistan may experience heavy rainfall at a few places. Partly cloudy conditions with chances of rain-wind/thunderstorm are likely in isolated spots across Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and adjacent hilly areas.
Reflecting on the past 24 hours, the weather across most parts of the country remained dry, with notably hot conditions in the southern regions. However, isolated rain and thunderstorms were reported in Northwest Balochistan and Parachinar, with recorded rainfall of 3 mm in Parachinar, and lighter showers in Nokkundi and Quetta.
Today’s highest recorded temperatures soared to 43°C in Dadu, Khairpur, Mohenjo Daro, and Jacobabad, indicating the onset of pre-monsoon warmth in these areas.
Residents of the affected regions are advised to take precautionary measures to safeguard their properties and lives. The PMD continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue updates as necessary to keep the public informed and prepared for the incoming weather challenges.
