A fresh westerly weather system is sweeping across Punjab, bringing with it intermittent rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, and a heightened risk of hailstorms in multiple districts through April 20, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported on Tuesday.
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According to the forecast, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Sargodha are among the key urban centers likely to be affected, particularly on the evenings of April 16 and 18. Isolated hailstorms and dust-laden winds may cause disruptions and property damage.
In southern Punjab, including Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Bahawalpur, duststorms and gusty winds are expected on April 18 and 19. The PMD warned that lightweight structures, such as solar panels, trees, and electric poles, could be damaged due to intense wind and hail activity.
“Wind-dust storms, hailstorms, and lightning may damage loose structures like electric poles, trees, vehicles, and solar panels,” a Met Office spokesperson said.
Farmers across Punjab, especially those engaged in wheat harvesting, have been advised to plan their agricultural activities accordingly to minimise potential losses. In addition, urban and rural authorities have been instructed to remain on high alert to prevent incidents caused by falling debris, traffic disruptions, and waterlogging.
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The PMD has also indicated a possibility of landslides in hilly areas connected to Punjab such as Murree and Galliyat, urging travelers to exercise caution.
With climate unpredictability on the rise, the latest storm system serves as yet another reminder of the growing frequency of extreme weather events in Pakistan’s most populous province.
