ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted widespread dust-thunderstorm and rain across the northern and upper parts of the country from May 10 to May 12, as a fresh westerly weather system approaches the country.
According to the Met Office, the weather system is expected to enter the northwestern regions on Saturday evening and persist in upper areas until Monday night, bringing intermittent rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms to several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.
The affected areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa include Chitral, Swat, Kalam, Dir, Shangla, Kohistan, Malakand, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Charsadda, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, and Karak.
In Punjab and Islamabad, rain and dust-thunderstorms are expected in Murree, Galiyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, and nearby districts from May 10 to May 12 with occasional gaps.
Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan districts, including Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Astore, Diamir, Ghizer, and Shigar, along with Azad Kashmir areas such as Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Poonch, Kotli, Mirpur, and Bagh, are likely to experience rain, wind, and thunderstorms from May 11 to May 13.
The PMD stated that the incoming weather system is expected to provide temporary relief from intense heat in upper regions. However, very hot and dry conditions are likely to persist in southern Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Balochistan.
Authorities have also warned of possible windstorm and lightning-related damage to weak structures, including electricity poles, billboards, and solar panels.
Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures during wheat harvesting, while tourists and travelers are urged to avoid unnecessary journeys in vulnerable areas.
The Met Office further cautioned that landslides may occur in mountainous regions of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir during the forecast period.
All relevant departments and local administrations have been directed to remain vigilant and ensure emergency preparedness to avoid any untoward incidents.
