Pakistan Meteorological Department warns of severe weather conditions

Residents of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and various regions in Pakistan are advised to brace themselves for severe weather conditions predicted by the Pakistan Meteorological Department. A westerly wave moving across western Pakistan is expected to impact upper and central parts of the country, bringing widespread rain, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms.

Starting Thursday night and continuing through Friday and Saturday, the twin cities, Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir are likely to experience these weather phenomena. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in north-eastern Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the possibility of flash floods in certain areas.

Specific regions at risk of flash floods include Balochistan's Noushki, Chagai, Kharan, Turbat, and others, as well as Dir, Swat, Chitral, and Kashmir. Landslides are also a concern in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan during this period.

Furthermore, windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning pose threats to human lives, crops, and infrastructure such as electric poles and solar panels. Maximum temperatures in Islamabad are expected to range from 28-30 degrees Celsius on Friday and Saturday, while Rawalpindi may see temperatures between 30-32 C.

In recent weather updates, isolated rain-thunderstorms were reported in northwest Balochistan and Parachinar, with Nawabshah recording the highest temperature at 42 C. Relative humidity levels in Islamabad and Rawalpindi were noted at 39-43 per cent, respectively.

As the severe weather approaches, residents are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and monitor official weather advisories closely to ensure their safety and well-being.