PMD warns of thunderstorms, heavy rains and snowfall

A strong westerly weather system has entered Pakistan, causing widespread rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall across various regions, as per the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

The system, which started in the western parts of the country, is expected to move towards the upper regions by February 25 and remain over northern areas until March 2.

The weather system is set to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to areas including Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Balochistan.

Key areas such as Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, and Shigar in Gilgit-Baltistan will experience heavy snowfall. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and surrounding areas are likely to see similar conditions from February 25 to March 2.

K-P is expected to receive heavy rain and thunderstorms, affecting districts like Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Peshawar, lasting until March 1. Additionally, Murree Hills, Galliyat, and nearby areas will face moderate to heavy snowfall from February 25 to March 1.

Meanwhille, from February 25 to 28, rain and thunderstorms are forecast for parts of Punjab and Islamabad, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan. Balochistan, particularly Quetta, Ziarat, and Mastung, will see rain and snowfall until February 26, with light rain expected in Larkana, Jacobabad, and Sukkur.

The PMD has warned that heavy snowfall could disrupt travel in hilly areas like Murree, Naran, Kaghan, and Skardu, with flash floods and landslides possible in parts of K-P and Kashmir. Hailstorms are also a risk in some plain regions.

The PMD has urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel during this period, with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) advising precautions to prevent property damage and loss of life.

On a positive note, the PMD highlighted that the rainfall would benefit standing crops, particularly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, helping improve agricultural conditions in those regions.

As the weather system moves through the country, authorities are advising residents to stay alert, prepare for adverse weather conditions, and follow safety advisories to minimise the risk of harm and damage.