Islamabad, March 2, 2025 – Several districts of Punjab are expected to experience significant rains within the next 24 hours as a strong weather system moves across the region.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a forecast indicating more rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms from late Sunday, impacting most areas of Punjab.
This incoming westerly weather system is expected to bring widespread rainfall, with the potential for snowfall in northern regions. The PMD has highlighted that Punjab, along with other provinces, will be affected by this system, which is likely to result in wet and windy conditions over the next day.
Recent rains in Rawalpindi have already had an impact on major events, including two Champions Trophy matches featuring Pakistan vs. Bangladesh and Australia vs. South Africa. The persistent showers disrupted play and caused delays, emphasizing the intensity of the ongoing weather activity in Punjab and surrounding regions.
Under the influence of this system, rain, wind, and thunderstorms, accompanied by snowfall in hilly areas, are expected across Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir from Sunday night through Monday. The PMD has cautioned that moderate to heavy snowfall may lead to road closures and slippery conditions in the hilly terrain, posing risks for commuters.
Furthermore, authorities have issued warnings regarding potential landslides and avalanches in mountainous regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir during this period. Farmers in Punjab and other affected regions are advised to plan their agricultural activities in accordance with the forecast to mitigate any weather-related disruptions.
Meanwhile, dry weather is expected to continue in most parts of Sindh, as the system is unlikely to bring significant precipitation to the province.
In January, the PMD had already raised concerns over emerging drought conditions in the country due to insufficient rainfall. According to official data, Pakistan recorded 40% less rainfall between September 1, 2024, and January 15, 2025. Punjab alone witnessed a 42% decrease in rainfall, exacerbating concerns over water shortages and agricultural challenges.
With above-normal temperatures anticipated, the PMD warns that mild drought conditions could intensify into moderate drought in Punjab and other rain-fed areas. The coming days will be crucial in determining the extent of the impact of these rains and whether they provide relief or contribute to further climatic fluctuations.