Key points:
- Western disturbance enters Balochistan on 19 December, gradually affecting northern and northeastern regions.
- Rain expected in parts of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Punjab, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan between 20–22 December.
- Mountainous areas likely to receive moderate to heavy snowfall, aiding water storage.
- Cold winds expected after system weakens on 23 December, dropping temperatures in affected areas.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast the arrival of a western weather system on Friday, initially affecting Balochistan before moving toward northern and northeastern regions over the next few days.
The system is expected to bring rain, snow, and cold winds, with significant impacts on agriculture, travel, and daily life.
According to PMD, on 19 December, the system will remain mostly over western Balochistan, bringing cloudy skies and isolated showers. The rest of the country will experience dry but partly cloudy conditions.
By 20 December, the system is likely to spread to various cities in Balochistan and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with light rain in some areas. Mountainous regions may see winds picking up slightly, and effects will gradually be felt in the upper northern areas.
On 21 December, the weather system will have a stronger presence in northern Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and adjoining hilly areas, producing light to moderate rainfall and snow in higher elevations. The Potohar region, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and neighboring hilly districts may also see cloud cover and light showers by night.
22 December is expected to bring continued rainfall in plains and moderate to heavy snowfall in mountains, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern highlands, intensifying cold conditions, especially in the upper reaches.
By 23 December, the western system is expected to weaken, leaving scattered rain or snow in northern Punjab, Potohar, Kashmir, and other northern areas. Following the system, cold winds are expected to lower temperatures further in affected regions.
PMD has advised the public to remain cautious during travel in mountainous and hilly areas. The precipitation will be beneficial for crops, dust reduction, and replenishing water reservoirs, but people are advised to monitor updates for any changes in weather conditions.
