New spell of rain, strong winds and thunderstorms predicted for Pakistan

WEB DESK: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted a fresh spell of rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms in various parts of the country, particularly across southern regions, beginning February 16.

According to the department, westerly winds are expected to enter the southern parts of the country from Sunday, triggering unstable weather conditions. Thunderstorms are forecast in Waziristan, Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan (DI Khan) on February 16 and 17.

A wide swath of Balochistan is also likely to receive rainfall during this period. Showers with gusty winds are expected in Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Chaman, Qila Saifullah, Qila Abdullah, Loralai, Khuzdar, Sibi, Naseerabad, Jhal Magsi, Mastung, Barkhan, Musakhel and Kalat.

Coastal areas are also in the system’s path. Rain with strong winds and thunderstorms has been forecast for Awaran, Gwadar, Ormara and Pasni, along with surrounding localities.

In Sindh, rainfall is expected on February 17 in Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Jamshoro, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad and Khairpur. The Met Office has warned that some areas in Sindh may also experience hailstorms accompanied by strong winds.

Meanwhile, parts of southern Punjab, including Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Bahawalpur, are also likely to receive rain at isolated places.

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and strong winds, particularly in vulnerable and low-lying areas, as the new weather system moves across the region.