Weather update: Thunderstorms & hailstorms predicted across Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a nationwide weather advisory predicting strong winds, thunderstorms, rain, and hailstorms starting May 7.

The forecast comes as a new western weather system moves into the upper and central parts of the country, while humid winds are also making their way into southern and central regions. This combination of weather patterns is likely to bring thunderstorms and strong winds to several districts.

Northern regions & Kashmir

Heavy rain and hailstorms are expected intermittently from May 7 to 12 in several parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur.

Gilgit Baltistan

From May 8 to 12, regions such as Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Gilgit, and Hunza may experience moderate to heavy rainfall.

Punjab & Islamabad

Between May 7 and 11, districts including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Bahawalpur are likely to witness dust storms, thunder, and occasional hail.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Areas such as Chitral, Swat, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan may experience unstable weather from May 7 to 12, with the potential for heavy downpours.

Balochistan

Rainfall is expected from May 7 to 10 in regions including Quetta, Zhob, Khuzdar, Musa Khel, and Awaran.

Sindh

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast thunderstorms and strong winds in districts such as Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, Tharparkar, Umerkot, and Sanghar between May 8 and 10.

The PMD warned that gusty winds and lightning could damage weak infrastructure, electric poles, vehicles, and trees. Farmers, particularly those harvesting wheat, have been advised to delay their activities or take extra precautions during this period.