–PMD warns of widespread rain and snowfall in northern areas from April 5 to 9 as a new westerly weather system moves across the country

Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department said a fresh westerly wave will enter western parts of Balochistan on the evening of April 5. The system is expected to persist over upper regions until April 9, bringing cooler temperatures and unsettled weather conditions.
According to the forecast, rain is expected in Balochistan districts including Panjgur, Gwadar, Pasni, Turbat, Khuzdar, Kalat, Quetta, and Zhob from April 5 to 7. Other areas such as Barkhan, Lasbela, Kohlu, and Nasirabad may also receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Coastal regions could experience gusty winds along with light to moderate showers.
Punjab and the federal capital Islamabad are likely to receive rain between April 6 and 9. Affected cities include Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sargodha, Mianwali, Khushab, Faisalabad, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, and Sheikhupura. Heavy downpours and isolated hailstorms may occur in some areas, potentially impacting agricultural activities during the ongoing crop cycle.
In Sindh, upper districts such as Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, Jacobabad, and Shikarpur are expected to receive thunderstorms with rain on April 6. The department noted that rainfall in these areas will likely be short-lived but could bring temporary relief from rising temperatures.
Northern regions are forecast to experience more intense weather conditions. Gilgit-Baltistan districts including Astore, Skardu, Gilgit, Hunza, Nagar, and Ghizer may receive rain along with snowfall over mountains. Similarly, parts of Azad Kashmir such as Bagh, Rawalakot, and Neelum Valley are expected to witness rain and snowfall, which may lead to a drop in temperatures.
Meteorologists say such westerly systems are common during early April, but their intensity has varied in recent years. According to global climate assessments, shifting weather patterns linked to climate change have increased variability in precipitation across South Asia.
Pakistan has experienced extreme weather events in recent years, including heavy rains and floods that caused significant economic and agricultural losses. Data from national disaster authorities shows that irregular rainfall patterns have continued to affect crop yields and water management systems.
Authorities have advised relevant departments to remain alert and urged citizens to take precautionary measures. There is a risk of landslides in hilly areas and possible urban flooding in low-lying areas during heavy spells.
The upcoming rains are expected to lower temperatures and may support water availability for agriculture. The Pakistan Meteorological Department indicated that additional westerly waves could affect the region later in April, shaping the overall weather trend in the coming weeks.
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