ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread dust-thunderstorms and rain in upper and central parts of the country starting today, with the system likely to persist in northern areas until May 5.
According to a press release issued by the National Weather Forecasting Centre, a fresh westerly wave is expected to enter the northwestern regions on May 2, bringing rain, windstorms and isolated heavy falls, along with chances of hailstorms in several regions.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain-windstorms with isolated heavy falls and hail are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Peshawar and surrounding districts between May 2 evening and May 5 morning.
In Punjab and Islamabad, dust-thunderstorms and rain are likely from May 2 evening to May 4 night, with occasional gaps. Isolated hailstorms are also expected in areas including Murree, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad and Sialkot.
The forecast further indicates rain and thunderstorms in Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir from May 2 to May 5, while parts of Balochistan, including Quetta and Zhob, are also expected to receive rainfall between May 2 and May 4. In upper Sindh, dust storms are likely on May 2 and 3.
The PMD has warned that windstorms, hail and lightning may damage vulnerable infrastructure such as electric poles, trees, vehicles and solar panels.
Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect standing crops, while tourists and travelers are urged to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement during the forecast period.
Authorities have been directed to stay vigilant and take necessary steps to prevent any untoward incidents amid the expected weather conditions.
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