QUETTA: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a detailed weather forecast, predicting widespread rain, snowfall, and a significant drop in temperatures across Pakistan, with Balochistan poised for a major westerly system early next week.
A fresh westerly wind is expected to enter Balochistan on January 19, bringing active weather conditions to the province. The Met Office predicts rain and hail in Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, and Qila Abdullah from Sunday onward. From January 21 to 23, residents of Quetta and Ziarat can likely experience snowfall, transforming the region’s landscape.
The incoming system is also expected to cause a notable drop in temperatures across northern and central Balochistan. Authorities have warned of potential disruptions, citing a risk of slippery roads in several districts, including Zhob, Harnai, Loralai, and Qila Saifullah. Meanwhile, coastal and southern areas such as Khuzdar, Panjgur, Kech, Gwadar, and Lasbela are also expected to receive rain.
Nationally, the weather system will bring widespread changes. Islamabad, Lahore, and other plains of Punjab are forecast to receive rain between January 20 and 23. The northern areas, including Murree, Galiyat, Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Kalam, are likely to receive heavy snowfall, potentially disrupting travel. Similar conditions of intermittent rain with strong winds and thunderstorms are predicted for Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa until January 19, extending to divisions like Peshawar and Hazara later in the week.
This widespread weather activity marks the peak of the winter season and is expected to alleviate dry conditions in several regions. Residents in hill stations and areas expecting snowfall are advised to prepare for cold conditions and potential travel delays, while those in plains should prepare for wet and windy days ahead.
