–Intermittent rains continue nationwide with heavy showers and hail forecast in several regions, while authorities rule out major flood risks in Sindh

BeNewz Report
ISLAMABAD: Intermittent rainfall continued across Pakistan on Tuesday as the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast heavy downpours and isolated hailstorms in multiple regions, including Islamabad and upper Punjab, amid an active western weather system.
The weather office said Islamabad would receive rain throughout the day with occasional heavy spells at isolated locations. Similar conditions were expected in Murree, Galyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum, reflecting the spread of moisture-laden currents over northern Punjab.
Rain-bearing clouds were also forecast over central districts including Sargodha, Mianwali, Faisalabad, Jhang, and Toba Tek Singh. The Southern Punjab cities such as Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Rajanpur were also likely to receive showers, the department said in its latest advisory issued Tuesday morning.
According to PMD data, Pakistan receives significant pre-monsoon rainfall during spring due to western disturbances originating from the Mediterranean region. These systems typically intensify between March and April, bringing thunderstorms, gusty winds, and occasional hailstorms across northern and central regions.
The current spell is linked to one such western system that has now extended into Sindh, raising expectations of heavy rainfall in parts of the province. Karachi’s outskirts, including Gadap and areas along the Super Highway, were expected to receive intense showers later in the day.
Officials from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority said urban flooding risks in Karachi remained low despite forecasts of heavy rainfall. Sindh’s northern districts, including Kashmore, Jacobabad, Larkana, and Sukkur, were likely to witness torrential rain, although authorities ruled out a broader flood situation.
Pakistan has experienced increasing weather variability in recent years, with extreme rainfall events becoming more frequent. According to the Global Climate Risk Index 2025, Pakistan ranks among the countries most vulnerable to climate-related disasters, including floods and erratic rainfall patterns.
In KP, steady rainfall continued across multiple districts, including Peshawar, where thunderstorms brought a noticeable drop in temperature. Power disruptions were reported after dozens of feeders tripped due to heavy rain, according to local electricity officials.
The PMD said the current rain spell would likely persist until April 9, with intermittent breaks. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds could affect infrastructure and agricultural activity in exposed areas.
Pakistan’s agriculture sector, which contributes around 23% to GDP according to the State Bank of Pakistan’s latest annual report, often benefits from timely rainfall. However, excessive downpours can damage standing crops, particularly wheat, which is currently in its harvesting phase across Punjab.
Recent government data shows wheat output is projected at around 28 million tonnes for the 2025 season, making weather stability crucial during harvesting weeks. Farmers in central Punjab have already expressed concerns over potential crop losses if heavy rains continue.
The National Disaster Management Authority has advised local administrations to remain alert, especially in low-lying areas and regions prone to landslides, such as Murree and Galyat
Looking ahead, meteorologists expect more frequent western disturbances in April due to shifting climate patterns. This could prolong wet conditions in northern regions, impacting both urban management and agricultural planning. Authorities say close monitoring will remain essential as the Pakistan Meteorological Department continues to track evolving weather patterns nationwide.
BeNewz