ISLAMABAD:The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast strong winds, dust storms, and thunderstorms in parts of Punjab and Azad Kashmir over the next few hours.
An active weather system over northeast Punjab is expected to bring gusty winds and rain to several cities, including Lahore, Gujranwala, and Sialkot.
Strong winds, dust storms, and thunderstorms with rain are expected at isolated places over the next two to four hours, the PMD said.
The advisory covers areas including Chakwal, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, and parts of Azad Kashmir. Residents have been urged to take precautionary measures.
Separately, mild heatwave conditions are expected to develop in southern parts of the country from April 29 to May 3. Temperatures are forecast to rise above seasonal averages.
Pakistan is considered among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Increasingly frequent extreme weather events have been reported in recent years, including heatwaves and floods.
Temperatures in southern regions, including Sindh, south Punjab, and parts of Balochistan, are expected to rise significantly, with levels potentially exceeding 50°C during peak heatwave conditions.
Recent observations have indicated temperatures running above normal levels in several areas, raising concerns about further intensification.
Global climate patterns are also being monitored. The possible emergence of El Niño conditions has been flagged as a risk factor for higher temperatures and disrupted weather patterns.
Disaster management authorities have issued alerts, urging preparedness as temperatures are expected to rise in the coming days.
