A powerful westerly weather system is set to sweep across upper Pakistan starting the evening of April 16, 2025, delivering widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and possible hailstorms through April 20, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The system is expected to impact multiple regions, prompting warnings of potential damage and disruptions.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts such as Chitral, Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Mansehra, and Abbottabad are forecast to experience moderate to heavy rain, accompanied by gusty winds and thunder, intermittently over the next few days. Similar conditions are anticipated in Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, with the heaviest activity expected during evening hours.
Central and northern Punjab, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sargodha, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, will likely see duststorms and thunderstorms, particularly on April 16 and 18. The PMD has flagged the possibility of isolated hailstorms, which could pose risks to infrastructure and crops. Meanwhile, southern Punjab districts like Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Multan, and Bahawalpur are expected to encounter duststorms and strong winds on April 18 and 19.
The weather system brings significant concerns for safety and property. Authorities have cautioned that high winds, hail, and lightning could damage unstable structures such as electric poles, trees, vehicles, and solar panels. In hilly areas, including parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Murree, and Galliyat, landslides are a potential threat, particularly in vulnerable zones.
Farmers, especially those in the midst of wheat harvesting, have been urged to adjust their schedules to minimize crop losses. The PMD emphasized the importance of monitoring weather updates closely to avoid exposure to hazardous conditions.
Local authorities and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert, with calls for proactive measures to mitigate risks. Residents are advised to secure loose objects, avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm periods, and stay informed about weather developments.
As the region prepares for an eventful few days, the PMD continues to monitor the system and will provide updates as needed to ensure public safety.
