Met Office Forecasts Heavy Rain and Snowfall Across Pakistan

A westerly weather system is forecast to bring rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall to large portions of Pakistan beginning February 8th and continuing through February 10th. The system is expected to first impact western regions before moving northward, potentially causing disruptions across multiple provinces.

Regional Breakdown

Balochistan

Balochistan is expected to experience rain, wind, and thunderstorms, along with snowfall in hilly areas, on February 8th and 9th. Specific locations anticipated to be affected include Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, and Awaran, among others.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Rain and thunderstorms, with snowfall over the hills, are predicted for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on February 9th and 10th. Areas including Chitral, Swat, Peshawar, and Waziristan are included in the forecast. Hailstorms are also possible in isolated areas during this period.

Punjab and Islamabad

Isolated rain and thunderstorms, with potential snowfall in the hills, are expected in parts of Punjab and Islamabad from the evening of February 9th through February 10th. Affected areas may include Murree, Galiyat, and Rawalpindi. Lahore is expected to remain partly cloudy. Gusty winds are likely in southern districts, and hailstorms are possible in isolated locations.

Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir

Rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall are forecast for Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir on February 9th and 10th. This includes areas like Diamir, Skardu, Hunza, and the Neelum Valley. Hailstorms are also a possibility in Kashmir.

Sindh

Most districts of Sindh are expected to experience partly cloudy to cloudy weather with light rain or drizzle, and gusty winds may occur in coastal areas on February 8th and 9th.

Did You Know? The forecast covers a wide geographical area, including 20 districts in Balochistan and 23 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Expert Insight: This widespread weather system has the potential to disrupt travel and daily life across a significant portion of Pakistan, particularly in mountainous regions where snowfall is anticipated. The possibility of hailstorms and gusty winds adds to the potential for localized damage and inconvenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is driving this weather change?

A westerly wave is approaching western parts of the country and is expected to move towards upper regions.

Which areas are most likely to see snowfall?

Snowfall is expected over the hills in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Kashmir.

When is the most intense weather expected?

The most intense weather is expected between February 8th and 10th, with variations depending on the region.

How might residents in the affected areas best prepare for these forecasted conditions?