ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s weather has taken another unexpected turn as a new western disturbance enters the country, triggering fresh forecasts of rain, strong winds, thunderstorms and snowfall across multiple regions.
In this regard, initial forecasts indicate that major cities of Punjab including Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan and Gujranwala are likely to receive rainfall over the next few days.
The situation appears more serious. The PMD has warned of heavy snowfall in Murree, the Galiyat, Swat, Kalam, Chitral and Dir. Authorities have urged tourists and local residents to exercise caution, citing risks of road closures, slippery surfaces and possible landslides.
Meanwhile, attention is increasingly shifting toward Balochistan, where another phase of the western weather system is expected to arrive soon. Meteorological officials say rain, hailstorms and snowfall could affect Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin and Qila Abdullah.
In such a case, weather observers note that between January 21 and 23, snowfall is likely in Quetta and Ziarat, while temperatures across northern and central Balochistan may drop sharply. Concerns are also growing over road safety in areas such as Zhob, Harnai, Loralai and Qila Saifullah, where icy conditions could disrupt traffic and supply routes.
At the same time, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may continue to experience intermittent rain, snowfall and strong winds, further increasing the intensity of winter.
However, meteorologists focus on that this is only the initial phase of a broader weather pattern. Key details about its duration, severity and wider impact are expected to emerge in the coming days leaving many to wonder whether Pakistan is heading toward a prolonged spell of extreme winter conditions.
