Pakistan’s Meteorological Department has issued a fresh weather advisory, forecasting a mix of rainfall and thunderstorms in northern regions, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while cautioning about heatwave-like conditions gripping the southern parts of the country. The contrasting weather patterns are set to unfold between April 8 and 11, driven by an incoming western disturbance.
According to the Met Office, the weather system will sweep across the upper reaches of Pakistan starting Monday, April 8. Northern districts such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, and Mansehra are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. The system will also bring showers to Abbottabad, Battagram, Buner, Bajaur, and Gilgit-Baltistan, offering a respite from the dry spell. In addition, intermittent rain is predicted for Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Mianwali, and parts of northeast Punjab, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Meanwhile, the plains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and upper Sindh may witness dust-raising winds, adding a layer of complexity to the weather outlook. In stark contrast, central and southern Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan are bracing for unusually high temperatures, with readings expected to soar 4 to 7°C above seasonal averages. The Met Office has flagged these conditions as resembling a heatwave, particularly in the south, where the scorching heat could pose health risks.
Authorities have urged residents to take precautions as the weather shifts. In the northern areas, the rainfall could rejuvenate parched landscapes and ease water shortages, but the department warned of potential disruptions due to strong winds. In the south, the public has been advised to limit sun exposure during peak hours and prioritize hydration to combat the oppressive heat. Farmers across the country have been encouraged to adapt their schedules, either to capitalize on the rains in the north or to shield crops from the heat in the south.
The western disturbance marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s weather trajectory this April, highlighting the nation’s diverse climatic zones. As Islamabad and Rawalpindi prepare for wet and windy days, southern communities are gearing up for a challenging stretch of heat. The Met Office continues to monitor the evolving system and will provide updates as the situation develops. For now, Pakistanis are advised to stay informed and adjust to the dynamic forecast ahead.
