ISLAMABAD: A fresh spell of rain is set to begin across Pakistan from today, with authorities warning of thunderstorms, hailstorms, and possible flash flooding in several regions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast unstable weather conditions from March 24 to March 30, as a strong western weather system enters the country through Balochistan.
According to officials, the system will intensify after March 27 and may persist until the end of the month. As a result, widespread rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms are expected.
In Balochistan, cities including Gwadar, Turbat, Panjgur, Quetta, and Khuzdar are likely to receive rain with gusty winds and occasional hailstorms.
Meanwhile, upper regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa such as Chitral, Swat, Dir, Mansehra, and Abbottabad may experience rain along with snowfall in mountainous areas.
In Punjab, major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, and Islamabad are expected to receive rain, with chances of hailstorms in some areas.
Similarly, parts of Sindh including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana are likely to receive rain on March 25–26 and again on March 28–29.
Rain and snowfall are also expected in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, with isolated hailstorms possible.
The Met Office has warned of flash floods in parts of Balochistan from March 25 to 28, and in streams and rivers of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from March 28 to 30. There is also a risk of landslides in northern mountainous areas.
Authorities have advised farmers to take precautionary measures to protect crops. Citizens and tourists have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay alert.
Relevant departments have been directed to remain on high alert and take preemptive measures to handle any emergency situation.