PMD Issues Weather Alert for Widespread Rain and Snowfall Across Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released a comprehensive weather forecast, predicting a mix of cloudy conditions, intermittent rain, wind, and thunderstorms, along with significant snowfall over hilly areas, across several parts of the country during the next 24 hours. This weather pattern is expected to bring varied conditions, from heavy precipitation in some regions to cold and dry spells in others, impacting daily life and travel.
Regional Weather Breakdown and Expected Impacts
According to the PMD, rain accompanied by wind and thunderstorms, with snowfall over hills, is anticipated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, northeast Punjab, and northeast Balochistan. Specifically, heavy rain and moderate to heavy snowfall are likely at isolated places in Kashmir and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, posing risks for residents and tourists alike.
In contrast, cold and dry weather is forecast to prevail in most other parts of the country, including large areas of Sindh, providing a respite from the wet conditions but potentially leading to chilly temperatures.
Detailed Forecast for Major Cities and Areas
Islamabad: Expect cloudy weather with intermittent rain and wind-thunderstorms, which may affect commuting and outdoor activities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Widespread rain with snowfall over hills is predicted, with heavy rain and moderate to heavy snow expected in key areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra, and Abbottabad.
Punjab: Rain-wind and thunderstorm are forecast for cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Jhelum, Chakwal, Attock, and surrounding areas, while Murree and Galliyat may experience rain along with moderate to heavy snowfall.
Balochistan: Most districts will see cold and dry weather, but isolated rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall are likely in areas such as Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Noshki, Harnai, Zhob, Kalat, Barkhan, Sibi, and Loralai.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir: Intermittent rain and snowfall are expected, with heavy rain and moderate to heavy snowfall likely in Astore, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Haveli, and Jhelum Valley.
Warnings and Safety Advisories for Hilly Regions
The PMD has issued a critical warning that snowfall may lead to road closures and slippery conditions in mountainous and hilly areas during January 26 and January 27. Affected locations include:
- Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla
- Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, Haveli
- Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Noshki, Harnai, Zhob
Additionally, there is a heightened risk of landslides and avalanches in the hilly regions of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. In light of these hazards, tourists have been strongly advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during the forecast period to ensure safety.
This weather update underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared as Pakistan experiences diverse climatic conditions across its regions.
