Pakistan Meteorological Department Forecasts Rain and Snowfall
A shallow westerly wave brings widespread precipitation and temperature drops across northern regions.
1Westerly Wave Arrival
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert regarding an approaching shallow westerly wave. This atmospheric system is expected to impact northern and western parts of the country starting from the night of November 10. The weather pattern is projected to persist across these upper regions until the morning of November 14.
2Regional Precipitation Forecast
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa faces significant weather activity, including rain, wind, and thunderstorms with isolated heavy falls and potential hailstorms. Districts such as Dir, Chitral, Swat, and Peshawar are specifically highlighted for these conditions. The system will also bring light rain and thunderstorms to Islamabad, the Potohar region, and various districts across Punjab province.
3Mountainous Snowfall Expectations
High-altitude regions are bracing for snowfall as the weather system moves through. Areas including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, specifically locations like Neelum Valley, Skardu, and Hunza, are expected to experience snow until November 14. Authorities have warned that light snowfall may also occur over high mountains and glaciers during this wet spell.
4Balochistan and Sindh Outlook
While dry weather is expected to prevail across most districts of Sindh and Balochistan, isolated weather events are anticipated. Specific areas including Quetta, Zhob, and Kalat may experience rain, wind, and thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms during the night of November 11 and throughout November 12, marking a brief shift in local conditions.
5Agricultural and Public Advisories
The Met Office has urged farmers to adjust their agricultural activities based on these forecast conditions. Provincial and district authorities are advised to remain vigilant to prevent untoward incidents. The department emphasizes the need for precautionary measures, particularly in hilly areas where the combination of wind, rain, and snow poses potential risks.
6Temperature and Visibility
Daytime temperatures are projected to decrease by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius throughout the forecast period. Following the conclusion of this wet spell, foggy conditions are likely to develop in patches across the plains. Residents and travelers should prepare for reduced visibility and cooler temperatures as the weather system transitions across the country.
7System Intensity Timeline
The weather system is expected to intensify significantly on November 12. While the initial onset begins on November 10, the most widespread activity across Punjab and other northern regions is scheduled for November 12 and 13. Occasional breaks in the weather are expected throughout the duration of this four-day atmospheric event.
8Operational Preparedness Measures
The meteorological forecast serves as a critical warning for regional administration to manage infrastructure safety. By identifying specific districts prone to heavy falls and hailstorms, the department aims to mitigate potential damage. Continuous monitoring remains essential until the system clears the upper regions by the afternoon of November 14, as officially reported.
Original article: Dawn — Pakistan Meteorological Department Forecasts Rain and Snowfall