Islamabad, Pakistan Weather: Intermittent rain likely through weekend
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
Intermittent rain accompanied by gusty winds is expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and several other parts of Pakistan from Thursday night through the next two days. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms are also expected at isolated locations during this period. Synoptic Situation According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a seasonal low-pressure area is currently present over northern Balochistan and adjoining regions, while a high-pressure system remains in the upper atmosphere. A westerly weather system is expected to enter the country’s northern areas from Friday, with moisture-laden currents from the Arabian Sea likely to reach northeastern parts as well. PMD Forecast Under these conditions, intermittent rain, wind and thunderstorms are expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, the Potohar region, upper and central Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir. Meanwhile, strong dust storms and gusty winds are likely in Sindh and Balochistan. Impacts PMD warned that strong windstorms, hailstorms and lightning could damage vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, electricity poles and billboards. Heavy downpours may trigger urban and flash flooding in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lahore and Faisalabad. The department also cautioned that landslides could occur in susceptible areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir. Farmers have been advised to take necessary measures to protect their crops, while tourists and travellers are urged to avoid unnecessary journeys and remain vigilant during the forecast period. Temperatures According to the forecast, Islamabad’s maximum temperature is expected to remain between 40°C and 42°C on Friday before easing slightly to 39°C–41°C on Saturday and Sunday. In Rawalpindi, daytime temperatures are likely to range from 39°C to 41°C on Friday and 38°C to 40°C over the weekend. Past Weather During the past 24 hours, hot and dry weather persisted across most parts