More Thunderstorms and Snowfall Expected Across Pakistan. Pakistan is set to experience another active spell of winter weather, as a strong westerly wave is expected to move into the country over the coming days. According to the latest forecast, this system will first affect the western regions on January 25, before spreading to the upper and central parts on January 26 and 27.
This weather system is likely to bring widespread rain, gusty winds, thunderstorms, and snowfall, with heavy snowfall expected in some northern and hilly areas. Authorities and residents are advised to remain cautious, especially in mountainous regions where travel conditions may deteriorate rapidly.
Westerly Wave to Enter Pakistan on January 25
Meteorological analysis shows that a fresh westerly disturbance will approach western Pakistan on Sunday night, January 25. By January 26, the system is expected to intensify and grip upper Pakistan, triggering unsettled weather conditions across multiple provinces.
Such westerly waves are common during winter and often bring rain to plains and snowfall to high-altitude regions, helping lower temperatures further and increasing the risk of road blockages in northern areas.
Rain and Thunderstorms Expected in Balochistan and Upper Sindh
Under the influence of this weather system, rain-wind and thunderstorms with snowfall are expected in large parts of Balochistan from January 25 night through January 26.
Affected Areas in Balochistan
Weather activity is likely in:
- Quetta
- Ziarat
- Chaman
- Pishin
- Qilla Abdullah
- Qilla Saifullah
- Noshki
- Harnai
- Zhob
- Kalat
- Barkhan
- Sibbi
- Loralai
- Turbat
- Gwadar
- Jiwani
- Kech
- Awaran
- Chaghi
- Panjgur
- Khuzdar
- Washuk
- Kharan
In Upper Sindh, rain and thunderstorms are expected on January 26, particularly in:
- Sukkur
- Larkana
- Jacobabad
- Dadu
These areas may experience gusty winds and isolated heavy showers, which could temporarily disrupt daily routines.
Heavy Snowfall Likely in Northern and Hilly Regions
The most significant impact of this weather system is expected in northern Pakistan, where moderate to heavy snowfall may occur at higher elevations.
Gilgit-Baltistan
Rain and snowfall, with a few spells of heavy snowfall, are forecast for:
- Diamir
- Astore
- Ghizer
- Skardu
- Hunza
- Gilgit
- Ghanche
- Shigar
These conditions may lead to road closures and travel delays, especially along mountainous routes.
Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to See Rain and Snow
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rain-wind and thunderstorms with snowfall are expected from January 26 to 27, with occasional breaks.
Affected Areas in Kashmir
- Neelum Valley
- Muzaffarabad
- Poonch
- Hattian
- Bagh
- Rawalakot
- Haveli
Meanwhile, a wide range of districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are also likely to be affected.
Affected Areas in KP
- Chitral
- Dir
- Swat
- Kalam
- Shangla
- Kohistan
- Battagram
- Mansehra
- Abbottabad
- Buner
- Peshawar
- Nowshera
- Swabi
- Malakand
- Mardan
- Kohat
- Kurram
- Khyber
- Hangu
- Bajaur
- Bannu
- Dera Ismail Khan
- Waziristan
Higher elevations may see snowfall, while lower areas can expect rain and thunderstorms.
Rain and Cold Weather to Extend to Punjab and Islamabad
The influence of the westerly wave will also extend into Punjab and the Islamabad region on January 26 and 27.
Expected Areas in Punjab
- Murree
- Galliyat
- Islamabad
- Rawalpindi
- Chakwal
- Attock
- Mandi Bahauddin
- Sialkot
- Narowal
- Lahore
- Sheikhupura
- Gujrat
- Sargodha
- Mianwali
- Gujranwala
- Multan
- Layyah
- Bhakkar
- Dera Ghazi Khan
Murree and the Galliyat region are likely to receive snowfall, while other areas may experience cold rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms.
Possible Impacts and Public Advisory
This weather spell may cause:
- Temporary road blockages in hilly areas
- Reduced visibility due to fog, rain, and snowfall
- Slippery roads in northern and upper regions
- Cold conditions intensifying across much of the country
Residents, tourists, and transporters are advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel to mountainous areas
- Keep updated with local weather advisories
- Drive carefully during rain or snowfall
- Prepare for power outages in affected regions
Conclusion
The approaching westerly wave is set to bring widespread rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall across Pakistan from January 25 to 27. While this system will add to winter chill, it may also provide much-needed moisture to some regions. However, heavy snowfall in northern and hilly areas could pose challenges for travel and daily life.
