ISLAMABAD: Islamabad and most parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are bracing for wet weather today as scattered thunderstorms and rain are forecast across the region.
In Islamabad, the day began with heavy rain and thunderstorms, with a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius and humidity at 99 percent. The Met Office expects the capital to see scattered thunderstorms through the morning and early afternoon, with an 80 percent chance of rain.
Up to 3.87 inches of rain could fall in some areas. Temperatures are likely to range between a low of 22°C and a high of 30°C. Conditions are expected to improve by evening with partly cloudy to clear skies and temperatures dropping to around 24-26°C.
Air quality in the capital remains a concern. The Air Quality Index stands at 154, which falls in the unhealthy category. The primary pollutant is PM2.5, and residents, especially those with respiratory issues, have been advised to limit outdoor exposure.
Across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, similar weather is expected. Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan are likely to experience scattered thunderstorms and rain, with heavy downpours possible in some areas. Temperatures in the plains will range from 28°C to 33°C, while northern districts including Swat, Chitral and Abbottabad will remain cooler at 18°C to 24°C.
Authorities have warned of possible local flooding and landslides in hilly areas due to heavy rain, and strong winds may accompany thunderstorms.
The current weather system is expected to persist into Wednesday with more thunderstorms predicted in the afternoon and evening. Citizens have been urged to drive carefully and avoid low-lying areas amid the rain.
Read also: Met office issues new nationwide rain alert
