The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has forecast a steady rise in temperatures across Pakistan beginning May 18, while also warning of scattered rainfall and thunderstorms in different parts of the country.
According to an advisory issued by the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), most regions are expected to experience hotter weather conditions through May 23, with intermittent weather disturbances in selected areas.
Punjab to see rain and thunderstorms
Several districts in Punjab are likely to receive scattered rain, thunderstorms, windstorms, and isolated hailstorms between May 19 and May 22.
The affected areas may include:
- Rawalpindi
- Islamabad
- Murree
- Attock
- Chakwal
- Gujranwala
- Lahore
- Sialkot
- Kasur
- Multan
- Sahiwal
- Okara
Despite the expected rainfall, temperatures are still projected to gradually rise throughout the province during the same period.
Sindh expected to remain hot and dry
According to the advisory, Sindh will largely experience hot and dry weather conditions from May 18 to May 23.
Authorities have warned that temperatures may continue increasing across most districts, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially in urban centres and low-rainfall areas.
KP and Balochistan may receive isolated storms
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, isolated rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in areas including:
- Chitral
- Swat
- Peshawar
- Abbottabad
- Mansehra
- Bannu
- Karak
- Landi Kotal
Similarly, parts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Chaman, and Khuzdar, are also expected to receive scattered rain and windstorms from May 19 to 22.
However, both provinces are still expected to remain generally hot and dry overall.
Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK also included in forecast
The NDMA advisory further stated that isolated weather activity is expected in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bagh may experience rainfall, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms.
Authorities advise precautionary measures
Weather officials have advised citizens to take precautionary steps amid rising temperatures and possible severe weather conditions.
People are being encouraged to:
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight during peak daytime hours
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise caution during thunderstorms and windstorms
- Secure weak structures, vehicles, and outdoor objects in storm-prone areas
Experts say changing weather patterns and rising seasonal temperatures continue to increase the likelihood of extreme weather events across the region.
