The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a significant weather advisory, forecasting a period of intense rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms across the country’s upper regions starting this week. The department has warned of potential flash floods and landslides, urging authorities and the public to take necessary precautions.
Forecast Details and Affected Regions
A westerly wave is expected to enter the country’s northwestern parts on April 16 and persist over the upper regions until April 19. Under its influence, the National Weather Forecasting Centre predicts isolated heavy downpours, hailstorms, and gusty winds.
The following areas are expected to experience significant weather activity:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): Widespread rain/thunderstorms in districts including Chitral, Swat, Mansehra, Peshawar, and the tribal districts from Thursday evening.
- Gilgit-Baltistan (GB): Moderate to heavy falls expected in Diamir, Astore, Gilgit, Skardu, and surrounding areas.
- Kashmir: Rain with thunderstorms and isolated hailstorms forecast for Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, and Mirpur from April 17-19.
- Punjab & Islamabad: Rain with isolated hailstorms in Murree, Galiyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, and Sialkot from April 16-18.
- Balochistan: Showers expected in Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, and Zhob on April 17-18.
Potential Hazards and Official Warnings
The PMD has highlighted several serious risks associated with this weather system:
- Flash Flooding: Likely in the vulnerable nullahs and streams of upper KP, GB, and Kashmir.
- Landslides: Possible in the vulnerable mountainous areas of the aforementioned regions.
- Damage Risk: Hailstorms and lightning may damage weak structures and standing crops, particularly in KP and upper Punjab.
- Travel Disruption: Tourists and travelers are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary journeys during the forecast period.
Call for Vigilance
The weather department has advised all relevant authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to mitigate risks and “avoid any untoward situation.” The public, especially in hilly and flood-prone areas, is urged to stay informed through official updates and prioritize safety.
