A powerful westerly weather system is set to enter Pakistan from April 1, bringing widespread rain, thunderstorms and snowfall across the country. Authorities have issued alerts warning of flash floods, landslides and travel disruptions.
According to the Met Department, a strong westerly wind system will enter the country on April 1 and continue affecting various regions until April 4.
The system is expected to bring rain, thunderstorms and hailstorms to multiple parts of Pakistan, prompting a high alert from both the Met Office and disaster management authorities.
Rain, hail, thunderstorms nationwide
Rain and hail are likely in different parts of Balochistan, while thunderstorms are expected in upper and plain areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In Punjab, stormy winds and rain are forecast, particularly in cities including Lahore, Murree, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Multan and Faisalabad.
Rain and hail are also expected in the plains and southern districts of Punjab, while Islamabad and Rawalpindi may experience rainfall along with snowfall in the Galiyat.
Intermittent rain in Karachi, Sindh
The Met Department has predicted intermittent rainfall in Karachi and interior Sindh from April 2 to 4. This marks a shift in weather patterns for the southern region, which may experience periodic showers during this period.
The NDMA spokesperson said more rain accompanied by thunderstorms and snowfall is expected in mountainous regions. Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to receive snowfall along with rain in the coming days.
Risk of flash floods, landslides
Authorities have warned of potential flash flooding in western Balochistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. There is also a significant risk of landslides in upper areas due to the ongoing and expected rainfall.
In southern Punjab, particularly Dera Ghazi Khan, flash flood threats have also been highlighted.
The NDMA warned that strong winds, gusty conditions, lightning and hail could damage weak structures, trees and electricity poles. Rainfall may also cause slippery roads, disrupting traffic flow in several areas.
Authorities issue alerts
PDMA Punjab has directed all district administrations to remain on high alert around the clock. Farmers have been advised to plan harvesting activities carefully in light of the weather conditions, while tourists have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel.
Landslides disrupt roads in Neelum Valley
Meanwhile, continuous rain has been reported in Neelum Valley since last night, affecting multiple areas including Athmaqam, Keran, Kuttan, Upper Neelum, Sharda, Kel and Grace Valley. Heavy landslides have forced the closure of the main Neelum-Kel highway at Sharda, as well as the road connecting Kuttan to Jagran.
Machinery from the Neelum Highway Department has been dispatched for restoration work, while authorities have advised citizens and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel during the rains.
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