The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a countrywide weather advisory, warning of rain, windstorms, thunderstorms, and snowfall in upper and western parts of Pakistan over the next few days. Authorities have also cautioned travelers and residents in hilly regions to remain alert due to possible disruptions.
Rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall are expected in multiple regions of Pakistan from February 8 to 10 due to an incoming westerly weather system.
Little Detail About the Latest Weather System
According to PMD, a strong westerly wave is expected to enter western Pakistan on February 8, triggering unstable weather conditions across several provinces. This system may lead to landslides, slippery roads, and temporary road closures, especially in mountainous regions.
Areas Likely to Receive Rain and Snow
Balochistan
Rain, wind, and thunderstorms—with snowfall over hills—are expected in:
Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Chaghai, Nushki, Zhob, Kalat, Mastung, Harnai, Barkhan, Sibi, Loralai, Khuzdar, Kech, Gwadar, Panjgur, and Awaran on Feb 8 and 9.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Rain-wind and thunderstorms, along with snowfall in hilly areas, are forecast for:
Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, Kurram, Bannu, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Dera Ismail Khan, and Waziristan on Feb 9 and 10.
Isolated hailstorms may also occur.
Punjab & Islamabad Region
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Islamabad and Rawalpindi: Light rain and thunderstorms at isolated places
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Murree and Galiyat: Rain with snowfall over hills
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Other affected districts: Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sargodha, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Khushab, Jhang, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, and Gujrat
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Southern Punjab may experience strong windstorms
Gilgit-Baltistan & Kashmir
Snowfall with rain and thunderstorms is expected in:
Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, Shigar, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur on Feb 9 and 10.
Hailstorms may occur at isolated locations.
Sindh
Most districts will remain partly cloudy, while light rain or drizzle with gusty winds is likely in coastal areas on Feb 8 and 9.
Safety Advisory and Travel Warning
PMD has urged:
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Tourists to avoid unnecessary travel to hilly areas
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Residents to prepare for slippery roads and traffic delays
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Local authorities to remain alert for landslides and emergency response
Limitations and Weather Risks
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Temporary road blockages in mountainous regions
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Reduced visibility during snowfall and storms
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Power disruptions in wind-affected districts
Which dates are most critical for snowfall?
February 9 and 10 are the most sensitive days for snow in northern areas.
Is Lahore expected to receive heavy rain?
Lahore will remain mostly partly cloudy, with rain possible at isolated locations nearby.
Should tourists travel to Murree or GB during this period?
PMD advises postponing travel due to snowfall and road safety risks.
Can hailstorms damage crops?
Yes, hailstorms at isolated places may affect standing crops.
Weather Outlook Summary
The upcoming weather spell may bring much-needed rain to several regions but also carries significant risks in hilly and northern areas. Staying updated with official forecasts and taking precautionary measures will be key to avoiding inconvenience or danger during this period.
