The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a nationwide weather alert, forecasting widespread rain, wind, thunderstorms, and hailstorms across multiple regions from April 1 to April 4, as a strong weather system approaches the country.
According to the Met Office, a westerly wave is expected to enter southwestern Balochistan on April 1 and persist until April 4, triggering unstable weather conditions across most provinces.
Rain, Hailstorms Expected in Multiple Regions
The advisory warns that Balochistan will experience heavy rain and thunderstorms, along with isolated hailstorms, particularly in areas such as Panjgur, Turbat, Kech, Awaran, and along the Makran coast.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is also expected to receive rainfall and thunderstorms, with snowfall in mountainous regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Kalam. Authorities have warned of isolated heavy downpours and hailstorms in several areas.
In Punjab and Islamabad, cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, and Sargodha are likely to experience rain accompanied by strong winds and occasional hailstorms. Heavy rainfall is particularly expected in Dera Ghazi Khan and surrounding areas.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are also expected to see rain, wind, and thunderstorms, with snowfall in higher altitudes.
Meanwhile, Sindh, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Thatta, and Badin, is forecast to receive rain and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms between April 2 and April 4.
Flood and Landslide Risks
The PMD has warned of potential flash floods in northeast Balochistan, including Khuzdar, Awaran, and Kharan, as well as in streams and nullahs of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from April 2 to April 4.
Additionally, landslide risks have been highlighted in vulnerable regions of upper KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir due to heavy rainfall and melting snow.
Recent weather patterns have already shown the destructive potential of such systems. Heavy rains in KP have led to fatalities and infrastructure damage, raising concerns about preparedness during the upcoming spell.
Damage Risks and Public Advisory
The weather advisory cautions that windstorms and hailstorms may damage weak structures such as electric poles, billboards, and solar panels. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect crops from potential losses.
Tourists and travelers have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in mountainous and flood-prone areas. Authorities have also advised citizens to remain vigilant and follow official weather updates.
The PMD further warned that daytime temperatures are expected to drop across the country during this period, bringing temporary relief from heat but increasing risks associated with severe weather.
Authorities on Alert
The Meteorological Department has called on all relevant authorities to stay alert and take preventive measures to avoid damage and ensure public safety.
Officials have also indicated that the weather system may continue beyond April 4, suggesting that further updates and advisories may follow depending on conditions.
