A westerly weather system has entered Pakistan, forecasted to bring widespread rainfall from today through March 31. This system will impact both the plains and mountainous areas, bringing intermittent showers, thunderstorms, and possible snowfall in northern highlands.
In Punjab, Lahore is experiencing cloudy conditions with scattered rain expected. Temperatures in the city are anticipated to range between 19°C and 31°C, currently standing at 24°C. Other major districts in Punjab are also likely to receive rainfall, offering relief from the recent dry spell.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is predicted to face thunderstorms in several districts, including Peshawar, Swabi, Mardan, Charsadda, and Nowshera. Additional rainfall is expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, and Mansehra. Areas such as Abbottabad, Haripur, Balakot, and tribal districts may experience rain accompanied by thunder and lightning, with snowfall possible at higher elevations. Recent precipitation was recorded in Swat, Dir, Patan, and Timergara, with Dir receiving 4 millimeters and other areas around 1 millimeter.
In Balochistan, most districts will remain cloudy with localized rain forecasted in Kech, Panjgur, Lasbela, Gwadar, and Quetta. Heavier rainfall is expected in Kharan, Mastung, Bolan, Ziarat, and neighboring regions. Authorities have issued warnings about the potential for low to moderate flooding in streams and small water channels, particularly in the mountainous districts of Khuzdar, Kech, and northern Balochistan, due to heavy downpours.
In a significant development, the Meteorological Department has advised residents to exercise caution and stay informed through weather updates as the westerly system continues to influence weather patterns across Pakistan.
