LAHORE/KARACHI: As Ramadan commences, various parts of Sindh and Punjab are expected to experience rainfall, thunderstorms, and snowfall in hilly areas starting March 2.
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an advisory warning of rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall in several districts. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has reported a westerly weather system moving into the country’s western regions, bringing widespread precipitation and heavy snowfall in higher altitudes.
Weather Outlook for Sindh and Punjab
- Sindh: Some areas, including Qambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Sukkur, and Ghotki, may receive light rain or drizzle from the night of March 2 to the morning of March 3. Karachi will remain mostly cloudy, with strong winds expected on March 3. Daytime temperatures in Karachi are forecasted to remain between 30-32°C.
- Punjab: Cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Gujranwala, and Sialkot are likely to experience rain and thunderstorms on March 2 and 3. Southern Punjab districts, including Multan, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan, may also receive rainfall during this period.
- Hilly Regions: Murree and Galiyat are expected to witness heavy snowfall from March 2 to March 4, which may lead to road closures and slippery conditions.
Authorities on High Alert
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali has instructed all commissioners and deputy commissioners to remain on high alert. Relevant agencies, including WASA, Rescue 1122, and the Punjab Irrigation Department, have been directed to take necessary measures to prevent disruptions.
Authorities have also warned of hailstorms in upper Punjab and advised travelers heading to mountainous areas to exercise caution. Farmers have been urged to adjust their activities in response to the changing weather conditions.
To ensure public safety, PDMA has issued key directives, including:
- Keeping emergency response teams on standby.
- Establishing round-the-clock monitoring in emergency operation centers.
- Ensuring efficient communication of weather alerts to local communities.
- Conducting periodic checks on snow-clearing equipment.
- Advising travelers and residents to prepare emergency kits with warm clothing, food, medicines, and power banks.
Authorities have urged the public to stay updated through official weather advisories and take necessary precautions for a safe and smooth observance of Ramadan amid the shifting weather patterns.
