Islamabad : The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across the country’s northern and upper regions over the weekend as a new weather system, supported by moisture from the Arabian Sea and an incoming westerly wave, is set to become active from Saturday.
According to the PMD, Kashmir is expected to experience intermittent rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds, with the possibility of isolated heavy showers, from the night of July 10 through July 13.
Most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are also likely to receive rain and thunderstorms on July 11 and 12. Similar weather is forecast for Islamabad, Rawalpindi and several parts of Punjab, where scattered showers accompanied by gusty winds and thunder are expected during the same period.
The Met Office said Gilgit-Baltistan will remain under the influence of the system from the evening of July 11 until July 13, bringing rain and thunderstorms.
In Balochistan, isolated rain and windstorms are expected in the northern and northeastern districts on July 11 and 12.
Sindh is forecast to continue experiencing hot and very humid conditions. However, Tharparkar, Sukkur, Shikarpur, Larkana, Dadu and Jacobabad could receive isolated rain and thunderstorms on July 12 and 13.
The PMD warned that strong winds and lightning may damage weak structures, including solar panels, electricity poles and roadside advertising boards.
It also cautioned that heavy rainfall could trigger landslides in vulnerable areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir on July 11 and 12. Rising water levels are also expected in local streams, seasonal nullahs and hill torrents, particularly in Dera Ghazi Khan.
The weather department further warned of possible urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Gujranwala, Lahore and Faisalabad due to intense rainfall during July 11 and 12.
Tourists and commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel while the weather system remains active. Farmers have also been urged to plan agricultural activities according to the forecast and take appropriate measures to protect their livestock.
The PMD added that the prevailing hot and humid conditions are expected to ease as the weather system moves across the country. It also called on all relevant authorities to remain vigilant and ensure timely precautionary measures to minimize potential damage.
