Heavy rain and snowfall is forecasted by the Pakistan Meteorological Department for western and upper Pakistan from 1st to 6th January 2025. It will be wet and stormy due to an approaching strong weather system over the region.
Rain and Snow in Western and Upper Pakistan
Frontal system will be visible to shift over the western areas of Pakistan, and it may extend over upper areas from night or evening on January 1 up to January 6, which would also bring widespread rains, thunderstorm, and snowfall over mountains.
Heavy Rain and Snow Areas
- Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir: There will be extreme rain and snowfall in this time period of Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, and Neelum Valley.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Rain and snow would dominate the districts of Chitral, Dir, and Swat along with their district from 1st Jan to 5th Jan.
- Punjab: Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha would experience light and moderate rains from 2nd Jan till 6th Jan
- Balochistan: Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman would be experiencing rain and snow from 1st Jan to 4th Jan.
- Sindh: Partly dry and cold weather conditions will be seen with slight chances of rain in Dadu, Sukkur, and Jacobabad on 3rd and 4th January.
Snowfall Warnings and Safety
Murree and Galliyat: Snowfall is expected to fall from January 1 through January 6 and might lead to slippery roads, blocking, etc.
Tourist Resorts: There can be land slips in Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. So it is advisable not to plan your journey in those places at that time.
Safety Measures: Visitors should keep themselves informed about the weather and not travel to the areas that are affected until the roads are clear.
Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life
Advantages to Crops: The rain will likely boost agricultural activities in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Fog and Cold Wave: A strong cold wave and dense fog are anticipated after the rain, which will reduce visibility and increase the requirement for warm apparel and road safety.
FAQs
1. Which districts can expect the most snowfall?
Murree, Galliyat, Swat, and Gilgit-Baltistan would likely face heavy snowfall from January 1 to 6, 2025.
2. Precautions for tourists
Tourists need to postpone their travel schedule, check the weather forecast, and not cross the roads which are already known to be closed and prone to landslide.
3. Agriculture
Rain will aid in the cultivation of crops of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by sowing and growing through winter.
4. Will it rain heavily in cities?
Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha will receive light to moderate rain. Light to moderate snowfalls with rain are expected in Quetta and Ziarat.
5. What should drivers be careful for while driving in the fog and snow?
Use fog lights, travel at low speeds and refrain from moving on slippery and snowy roads until the weather improves.
Keep a vigilant eye on the changing pattern of weather update that is coming from the Pakistan Meteorological Department. Make preventive measures in travels and seize the opportunity through this rainfall for agriculture.