Islamabad: A significant weather shift is expected in the upper regions of Pakistan from October 5 to 8, as a westerly wave approaches, bringing rain, wind, and thunderstorms to several areas, the National Weather Forecasting Centre predicts. This weather pattern is likely to affect Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan, with potential impacts including increased stream flows, potential landslides, and disruptions due to windstorms.
According to National Weather Forecasting Centre – Islamabad, the weather system will particularly impact Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with predicted weather disturbances in areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Peshawar from October 5 to 8. In Punjab and Islamabad, similar conditions are expected, particularly affecting Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore among others, with gaps in rain and thunderstorms over the period.
In Kashmir, the forecast includes isolated moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially affecting Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and other districts, while Gilgit-Baltistan could experience significant rainfall in areas like Skardu and Gilgit. In contrast, Balochistan will see thunderstorms particularly in Quetta and Zhob on October 6 and 7, with most of Sindh remaining hot and dry.
Residents in affected areas are advised to prepare for possible disruptions. This includes increased flow in local nullahs and streams that may lead to landslides, especially in vulnerable regions such as Murree, Galliyat, and Gilgit-Baltistan. The weather conditions may also cause damage to weak structures and pose risks to travelers and tourists, urging extra caution during this period.
Farmers, travelers, and local residents are encouraged to adjust their activities and travel plans to accommodate the anticipated weather conditions and ensure safety during this turbulent weather period.