Upper parts of country likely to see rainy, windy conditions from Oct 6-7

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms, along with isolated hailstorms, in the upper regions of Pakistan from October 6 to 7. A westerly wave is expected to enter the upper parts of the country tonight and persist until October 7. This weather system is forecast to bring rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms, as well as isolated hailstorms, to various locations in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and the Islamabad region.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain-windstorm and thunderstorms are expected to begin on Monday night in multiple districts, lasting until October 7. Similarly, in Kashmir, rain and hail are anticipated in isolated areas such as Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur during the same period.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, these weather conditions are likely in Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar from October 6 to 7. While the rest of the country is expected to experience mainly hot and dry weather, isolated rain-windstorms and thunderstorms may occur in some parts of Balochistan. The PMD advises that windstorms, hail, and lightning could damage weak structures, and farmers are urged to adjust their crop activities accordingly.

Authorities are also requested to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent any untoward situations. The country recently experienced another spell of heavy rain, particularly affecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which highlighted the poor drainage system and civic departments' alertness. Additionally, heavy downpours in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa damaged and flooded roads, creating difficulties for residents, while rain, strong winds, and dust caused damage to vegetable and maize crops in Bajaur district, with no reported casualties.