ISLAMABAD: A strong weather system is forecasted to bring rain, wind, thunderstorms, and snowfall across various regions in the coming week, potentially affecting travel and causing flash floods in vulnerable areas.

According to a statement by National Weather Forecasting Centre – Islamabad, the weather disturbance is a strong westerly wave expected to reach the western parts of the country on February 24th, extending to the upper regions by February 25th. The system is predicted to linger in the northern areas until March 2nd.

In Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, widespread rain and thunderstorms with heavy snow and rainfall are anticipated from February 25th to March 2nd. This includes regions such as Diamir, Astore, and Skardu, among others.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is set to experience similar conditions, with predictions of heavy snow and rain from February 24th night to March 1st across multiple districts including Chitral, Dir, and Swat.

The forecast for Punjab and Islamabad includes moderate to heavy snowfall in Murree and Galliyat from February 25th to March 1st. Other areas such as Lahore and Faisalabad are expected to see rain and thunderstorms from February 25th to 28th.

In Balochistan, rain and thunderstorms with snowfall over the hills are expected from February 24th night to 26th. Light rain is anticipated in parts of Sindh on February 25th and 26th.

The weather system could lead to road closures and slippery conditions in hilly regions. Flash floods are a concern in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir, along with potential landslides in mountainous areas.

Travelers are advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary journeys during periods of heavy snow and rainfall. Conversely, the rain may benefit crops in certain areas of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.