Islamabad (Web Desk): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted a significant weather system approaching the country, expected to bring widespread rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall across various regions during the upcoming week.
A strong westerly system is forecast to move into the western parts of Pakistan on the evening or night of February 24, gradually spreading towards the northern regions by February 25. The system will persist in the northern areas until March 2, causing rain, wind, and thunderstorms along with intermittent heavy snowfall.
Parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, and Gilgit, along with areas in Kashmir such as Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, and Mirpur, will experience these conditions from February 25 to March 2.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts such as Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, and Peshawar, along with several others, are expected to see heavy rainfall and snowfall between February 24 and March 1. Snow is expected to accumulate in the higher altitudes of Murree and Galliyat from February 25 to March 1, while other parts of the region, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Chakwal, will experience rain and thunderstorms.
In Punjab, including Lahore, Faisalabad, and surrounding areas, rain and thunderstorms are predicted from the evening of February 25 to February 28, with a chance of hailstorms in some regions.
Rain will also affect districts such as Jhang, Multan, Bahawalnagar, and others between February 25 and 27. Southern areas of Sindh, such as Larkana and Sukkur, are likely to experience lighter rain and thunderstorms on February 25 and 26.
The severe weather conditions may lead to travel disruptions, particularly in mountainous areas like Murree, Galliyat, Kaghan, and Swat, where heavy snow could block roads.
Authorities have warned of the risk of flash floods in vulnerable regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir, and landslides may occur in the hilly regions. The rain is expected to benefit crops, particularly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, offering relief to Barani farming areas.
To mitigate risks, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial agencies have been urged to remain vigilant and enforce safety protocols.
Tourists and travelers have been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense weather.
