A new weather system driven by westerly winds is set to affect western parts of Pakistan starting tonight, bringing rain and snowfall to various regions, according to the Met Department.
The system is expected to persist until December 2, improving air quality in parts of the country but also increasing fog intensity in Punjab's plains.
Rain and thunderstorms are predicted in parts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Pishin, Qila Saifullah, Barkhan, Loralai, and Dera Ghazi Khan until Dec 2. Coastal areas such as Gwadar, Kech, and Panjgur are also likely to witness rain, with snowfall on the nearby mountains.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Met Office forecasts rain in Kurram, Mohmand, Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, Malakand, Hazara, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan divisions, along with snowfall in the mountainous regions of Swat, Dir, and Kohistan from tonight till Monday.
Northern areas, including Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu, are expected to experience both rain and snowfall in the mountainous areas. Additionally, light drizzle is likely in Islamabad, Murree, Mianwali, and Bhakkar on November 29 and December 2.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued alerts to district administrations in affected regions, urging preparedness. Authorities have been directed to ensure the availability of machinery for emergencies and advise the public to avoid power lines, dilapidated structures, and billboards during the rains.
Tourists visiting mountainous regions have been advised to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution due to the potential for snowfall.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared Islamabad’s air quality index as "unhealthy," recording an AQI of 170.
However, the upcoming rains are expected to improve air quality across Punjab by reducing air pollution. Despite this, fog intensity is likely to increase in the plains of Punjab in the coming days, which may affect visibility and travel.
