Weather Advisory Issued for Punjab and Islamabad

The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) released a weather advisory on Friday, cautioning residents of potentially hazardous weather conditions expected to impact areas of Punjab and Islamabad within the subsequent 12 hours.

This warning follows a recent severe hailstorm that affected the federal capital and sections of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), resulting in damage to car windshields, solar panels, and trees.

According to NEOC forecasts, an approaching westerly disturbance is anticipated to create unstable atmospheric conditions across several regions, leading to substantial rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and isolated occurrences of hailstorms.

Affected Areas

The advisory indicates that the Pothohar region, specifically Islamabad and Rawalpindi, along with upper Punjab districts like Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, and Jhelum, are most likely to experience these conditions. Central Punjab areas, including Faisalabad, Hafizabad, Jhang, Khushab, Mianwali, Lahore, Narowal, Sahiwal, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura, may also be significantly affected.

Potential Impacts
  • Heavy rainfall and strong winds could lead to trees being uprooted.
  • Possible temporary interruptions in power supply.
  • Windstorms and hail could damage poorly constructed buildings.
  • Damage to rooftops, vehicles, and power infrastructure.
  • Hailstorms pose risks to standing crops.

The NEOC also highlighted the possibility of rapid increases in water flow and localized flash floods in streams and nullahs within Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Chitral, Mansehra, Khurram, Khyber, Mohmand, Bajaur, and Neelum Valley between April 18 and 20.

An increased risk of flash flooding is also present in parts of the Hazara and Malakand Divisions because of expected moderate to heavy rainfall.

The NDMA advises tourists and travelers to remain informed and monitor the most recent weather updates. Individuals with travel plans are encouraged to verify road conditions beforehand and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.

The advisory also stated that those residing in or visiting areas prone to landslides should exercise caution and strictly adhere to safety guidelines provided by local authorities.