Rain, snowfall expected across Pakistan as westerly system brings relief from smog

A fresh spell of westerly winds is expected to bring rain to several parts of Pakistan and snowfall to mountainous areas over the next four days, with Punjab likely to see a reduction in smog but an increase in cold weather, authorities have warned.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms in upper parts of the country until November 14, as the weather system enters the western and northern regions on November 10. The system is expected to intensify on November 12.

Rain forecast across Punjab, KP

The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for rain across most districts of the province from November 10 to 13, warning of possible strong winds and hailstorms in some areas.

Rawalpindi, Mianwali, Jhelum, Attock, Khushab, Bhakkar, Sargodha and Murree are among the districts likely to receive rain. Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Gujranwala and Sheikhupura are also expected to experience rainfall.

Strong winds and hailstorms are possible in Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar, Multan and adjoining areas.

The PDMA has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain alert and take precautionary measures.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain is forecast in Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Abbottabad and other districts between November 10 and 14.

Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, the Galiyat region and Potohar are likely to receive rain on November 12 and 13.

Snowfall expected in northern areas

Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive rain, with snowfall in mountainous areas, between November 10 and 14.

The Met Office said most districts of Balochistan were likely to remain dry, although some areas could receive rain. Most parts of Sindh are also expected to experience dry weather over the next few days.

Smog likely to ease as temperatures fall

The PDMA said rainfall was expected to help reduce smog across Punjab, although temperatures would also fall, intensifying cold weather.

The Met Office has also warned that fog could develop in some areas following the rainfall.

Daytime temperatures are expected to drop by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in rain-affected areas.