ISLAMABAD: After enduring a prolonged dry spell that extended through the early winter months, echoing drought scenarios observed in previous years, Pakistan is finally set to experience much-needed rain and snowfall this weekend, as confirmed by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
A mild western disturbance arrived in the country’s western regions on Friday, bringing the prospect of precipitation across several provinces.
The PMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms in the plains, while hilly areas are expected to receive snowfall between December 13 and 15.
Rain mixed with occasional snowfall is predicted in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Malakand, Manshera, Abbottabad, Haripur, and Buner during the same period, with intermittent gaps.
Similar weather conditions are anticipated in Gilgit-Baltistan, encompassing Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar.
Kashmir regions, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, and Haveli, are also likely to witness light to moderate rainfall alongside hilltop snowfall from December 13 to 15.
Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered light rain and snowfall are expected in Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, and Waziristan on December 14 and 15.
Similar precipitation patterns are forecast for Quetta, Ziarat, Zhob, Sherani, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, and Nushki during this timeframe.
Drizzle is anticipated in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and the Potohar region during Sunday and Monday. Murree and Galliyat could receive light rain and snow during this period.
From the night of December 12 until December 16, moderate to dense fog is expected to develop over the plains of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and upper Sindh. Reduced visibility due to fog may disrupt traffic on motorways and highways; authorities recommend the public exercise caution during this time.
Daytime temperatures are expected to drop further during the forecast period, intensifying the winter chill already blanketing northern areas. Farmers should adapt their activities according to the latest weather updates to safeguard crops and modify irrigation schedules accordingly.
Following several weeks of worry-inducing dryness typical of recent winters, this weekend’s weather system provides a much-needed reprieve. The precipitation offers hope for replenished water resources and relief for agricultural areas and regions reliant on snowmelt for their water supply.
Breaking this extended dry spell could play a critical role in improving water availability and agricultural output as winter continues.
The PMD notes that another western disturbance is likely to impact western and upper parts of Pakistan starting December 19. This indicates that the persistent dry conditions may finally be giving way to multiple weather systems approaching in the weeks ahead.
