The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain and thunderstorms in several regions of the country, bringing chances of cooler weather in many northern and central areas.

According to the weather department, Islamabad and nearby areas are likely to receive rain accompanied by thunder during the night hours. Similar weather conditions are also expected in Murree, Galliyat and adjoining regions.

The PMD said rain is also likely in Attock, Mianwali and Rawalpindi, where cloudy weather may continue throughout the day. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, several districts are expected to witness thunderstorms and rainfall.

The areas included in the forecast are Peshawar, Kohistan, Swat, Bajaur, Kalam, Chitral and Dir. Rain is also predicted in Kohat, Nowshera, Abbottabad, Malakand, Parachinar and Kurram.

Meanwhile, the weather department has predicted strong winds and thunderstorms with rain at isolated places in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. Authorities have advised travelers and tourists in mountainous regions to remain careful during changing weather conditions.

On the other hand, most districts of Balochistan are expected to remain hot and dry, with no major chances of rainfall in the province.

Weather experts say the fresh spell of rain may help reduce heat intensity in several cities, while farmers are also hoping the rainfall will support crops and improve weather conditions in dry areas.