Weather authorities warn of heavy rainfall, hailstorms, strong winds, and possible landslides in several regions as a westerly weather system approaches the country.
Westerly Wave to Affect Upper Parts of Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread rain, dust storms, thunderstorms, and isolated heavy downpours across the upper and central parts of the country from June 2 to June 5.
According to the Met Office, a westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of Pakistan on June 2, bringing unstable weather conditions to several provinces and territories. The system is likely to trigger rain accompanied by strong winds, thunderstorms, and, in some areas, hailstorms.
Authorities have advised citizens, local administrations, and emergency services to remain alert and take precautionary measures during the forecast period.
Punjab and Islamabad Likely to Receive Rainfall
The PMD has predicted scattered rain and thunderstorms in Islamabad and numerous districts of Punjab, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Bahawalpur, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, and several other cities.
Some areas may experience heavy rainfall and hailstorms, particularly in northern and central Punjab. Weather experts warn that intense thunderstorms could temporarily disrupt traffic and daily activities in affected districts.
Rain Expected in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rainfall accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms is expected in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Bagh, Kotli, Mirpur, and surrounding areas from June 2 to 5.
Meanwhile, rain and thunderstorms are forecast for several parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Diamer, Ghizer, Ghanche, Astore, and Shigar from June 4 to 6.
The mountainous terrain in these regions increases the risk of landslides and travel disruptions during periods of heavy rainfall.
Rain and Snowfall Expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as PDMA Issues Weather Alert
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan Also Under Weather Alert
Several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to receive rain, thunderstorms, and isolated heavy falls. These include Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Bajaur, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan.
The PMD has also forecast dust-thunderstorm activity in northeastern Balochistan, particularly in Quetta, Zhob, Sherani, Ziarat, Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Barkhan, and Dera Bugti between June 2 and June 4.
Upper Sindh May Also Receive Thunderstorm Activity
The weather system is expected to affect parts of upper Sindh as well. Districts including Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Khairpur, Dadu, Ghotki, Kashmore, Shikarpur, and Shaheed Benazirabad may experience dust storms and thunderstorms from June 2 to June 4.
Although rainfall amounts are expected to be lower than in northern regions, strong winds and lightning could still create hazardous conditions.
Risk of Damage and Landslides
The PMD has warned that strong windstorms, lightning strikes, and hailstorms could damage vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, electricity poles, trees, and roadside billboards.
In addition, there is a heightened risk of landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir between June 3 and June 6. Local authorities have been advised to closely monitor conditions and prepare for any emergencies.
Farmers and Travellers Advised to Remain Cautious
The Met Office has urged farmers to plan agricultural activities according to the weather forecast to minimise potential crop losses. Harvesting, irrigation, and other farming operations may need adjustments depending on local conditions.
Tourists and travellers, particularly those planning visits to northern areas, have been advised to stay informed about weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain or thunderstorms.
Authorities Asked to Stay Vigilant
The PMD has called on all concerned departments and disaster management authorities to remain vigilant throughout the forecast period. Officials have been urged to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of weather-related incidents and ensure public safety.
With the arrival of the westerly weather system, residents in affected areas are encouraged to follow official advisories and remain prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions over the coming days.
