The National Weather Forecasting Center (NWFC) recently issued a severe weather alert for Pakistan, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rain, and snow in the northern regions. This advisory, released on Sunday, predicts a westerly wave that will impact western parts of the country and continue to affect the upper regions for the next 36 to 48 hours. Citizens are advised to take necessary precautions while traveling during this period.
Impacts on Northern Regions
The NWFC’s daily weather outlook indicates that while most parts of Pakistan will experience cold and dry conditions, northern and northwestern Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and upper and central Punjab will see cloudy weather with rain, wind, thunderstorms, and snowfall in the hills during the evening and night. This forecast specifically mentions the possibility of moderate to heavy snowfall in areas such as Murree, Galliyat, Naran, Kaghan, Chitral, Swat, and Skardu, among others, potentially causing road closures and slippery conditions from Sunday through Monday. The risk of landslides and avalanches in hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir is also highlighted, urging travelers in these regions to exercise caution.
Impact of Previous Weather Events
This weather update comes on the heels of last month’s rains, which brought some relief following a prolonged drought that significantly affected key crops like wheat and potatoes. Between September 1 and January 15, rainfall in Pakistan was 40 percent below normal, with provinces such as Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab experiencing deficits ranging from 42 to 52 percent. The country is still grappling with the aftermath of the devastating flash floods caused by torrential rains during the 2022 monsoon season. These floods, attributed to the impacts of climate change, led to over 1,700 fatalities and incurred damages amounting to $33 billion.
In conclusion, the severe weather alert issued by the NWFC serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the importance of preparedness in the face of such climate-related challenges. Stay informed, stay safe, and take necessary precautions during this period of inclement weather in Pakistan.
