Under the influence of the weather system, daytime temperatures are expected to drop by 3 to 4°C in the northern and high regions.
Clouds invade the Rawalpindi skyline as pleasant weather sets in. PPI/FILE
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Friday issued a weather advisory forecasting rain, strong winds and thunderstorms in upper parts of Pakistan from March 14 to 16.
According to the advisory, a westerly wave is expected to approach the northwestern regions of the country on Saturday evening and persist until the early hours of Monday.
Areas likely to experience significant weather impacts include Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sialkot and other parts of Punjab, as well as Zhob, Barkhan and Chaman in Balochistan.
Hailstorms are also expected in isolated locations during the forecast period. Additionally, another western disturbance is expected to affect western Pakistan on the night of March 17.
“Under the influence of this weather system, day temperatures are expected to decrease by 3-4°C in the northern and upper regions. Vulnerable areas such as upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir are likely to experience landslides,” the NDMA said.
The advisory urges tourists to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel to affected areas during storms. Farmers have been advised to take appropriate measures to protect their crops based on the prevailing weather conditions.
Given the possibility of hailstorms, the NDMA has issued the following safety recommendations:
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Immediately seek shelter indoors, in a sturdy building or inside a vehicle.
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Stay away from windows, as hail can break glass.
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If captured outdoors, use available items such as bags or jackets to protect the head.
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Drivers should stop safely, stop under a bridge or in a covered area, and stay indoors with their seat belts fastened. Driving in heavy hail should be avoided due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
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Cover vehicles, livestock and outdoor equipment if weather permits.
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Stay informed about weather conditions with mobile apps, radios or official alerts.
The NDMA also called on all relevant authorities, including federal ministries, provincial governments and local administrations, to implement necessary precautionary measures to protect public safety and minimize property damage during the forecast period.
