The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert for Punjab and Azad Kashmir, warning of rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, and possible hailstorms from March 17 to March 20.
The alert comes as a new westerly weather system is expected to enter the region, bringing widespread rainfall and a drop in temperatures.
Rain Expected Across Major Punjab Districts
According to PDMA, rainfall is likely in most districts of Punjab, including:
- Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat
- Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang
- Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal
- Faisalabad, Jhang, Chiniot
Additional districts such as Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Rahim Yar Khan are also expected to receive rain, particularly on March 18 and 19.
AJK Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Hailstorms Expected
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has also issued a rain and storm alert for Azad Kashmir, forecasting:
- Heavy rain with thunderstorms
- Strong winds
- Possible hailstorms
The weather system may cause intermittent rainfall across multiple districts, especially in hilly and mountainous areas.
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Risk of Flooding and Landslides
Authorities have warned that heavy rainfall in mountainous regions could trigger:
- Flash floods
- Landslides
- Travel disruptions
Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in northern and hilly areas.
Advisory for Farmers and Travelers
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia urged farmers to take precautionary measures to protect crops from adverse weather conditions.
Travelers heading to northern regions are advised to:
- Monitor weather updates
- Follow safety guidelines
- Avoid risky routes during heavy rain
In case of emergency, citizens can contact the PDMA helpline (1129) for assistance.
Temperature Drop Expected
Officials also noted that temperatures are likely to decrease in the coming days, particularly in upper regions, leading to colder weather conditions.
