PMD Warns Rain, Thunderstorms to Hit Pakistan From May 10

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rain, wind and dust-thunderstorms across several upper parts of the country from the evening of May 10 until May 12, warning that the incoming weather system could bring both relief from heat and disruption in vulnerable areas. The advisory was issued as a fresh westerly wave entered the northwestern regions of Pakistan on Saturday.

According to the Met Office, the weather system is expected to affect Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days. Rainfall is likely to occur with intervals, while dust storms and strong winds may accompany thunderstorms in several districts.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain and thunderstorms are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Shangla, Buner, Kohistan, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Kohat, Kurram and nearby areas. The spell is likely to begin on Sunday evening and continue through May 12.

Punjab and Islamabad are also expected to receive rain and thunderstorms during the same period. The forecast includes Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Narowal, where residents have been advised to remain alert during strong winds and lightning.

The PMD warned that windstorms and lightning could damage weak structures, including electricity poles, billboards and solar panels. Authorities have been asked to remain vigilant, while citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary exposure during severe weather conditions.

Farmers have been advised to manage crop activities carefully, especially in areas where wheat harvesting or post-harvest handling may still be underway. Sudden rain and dust storms can damage stored produce, delay field work and create losses for rural communities if precautions are not taken in time.

The forecast also covers Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Areas including Diamir, Astore, Skardu, Hunza and Gilgit may receive rain, while Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, Bagh, Kotli and Mirpur are likely to experience wet weather from May 11 to May 13.

Tourists and travellers have been advised to exercise caution, particularly in mountainous regions where landslides may occur during rainfall. The warning is especially important for upper KP, GB and AJK, where unstable slopes and narrow roads can become dangerous during thunderstorms.

The spell may provide temporary relief from hot conditions in the upper parts of the country, but very hot weather is expected to persist in southern regions, including south Punjab, Sindh and parts of Balochistan. The coming days will test local preparedness as authorities monitor weather intensity, road safety and possible damage from wind and lightning.