The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted wind and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms in the upper and central parts of the country from May 1 to 4. The ongoing heatwave is likely to subside during this period.
According to the Met Office, a westerly wave is expected to approach the upper parts of the country on the evening of April 30, while moist currents are likely to enter northeast Punjab from May 1.
Under the influence of this weather system, wind and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy falls and hailstorms, are expected in several areas.
The affected areas include Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur), Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot, and Narowal.
Rain is also expected in Lahore, Sahiwal, Kasur, Okara, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, and Malakand.
Other areas likely to be affected include Waziristan, Kohat, Lakki Marwat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Karak, Khyber, Peshawar, Mardan, Kurram, and Gilgit-Baltistan (Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar). These regions are expected to receive rain from the evening or night of April 30 to May 4, with occasional gaps.
Duststorms and thunderstorms are also expected in Multan, DG Khan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Sukkur, Mirpurkhas, Khairpur, Tharparkar, Sanghar, Umerkot, Zhob, Khuzdar, Musakhel, and Barkhan between the night of May 2 and May 5.
The Met Office has warned that windstorms, hail, and lightning may damage electric poles, trees, vehicles, solar panels, and other loose structures. People are advised to take care, especially during thunderstorms.
Farmers, especially those harvesting wheat, are advised to plan their crop activities accordingly.
All relevant authorities have been advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions to avoid any untoward situations.
