Pakistan Braces for Severe Storms and Rainfall from April 30 to May 5

ISLAMABAD: A series of strong western weather systems is expected to impact Pakistan from April 30 through May 5, bringing widespread thunderstorms, dust storms, and rainfall across much of the country, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Balochistan.

According to forecasts, the first wave will begin affecting upper and central Pakistan on April 30 and May 1, followed by a second, potentially stronger wave from May 3 to 5. The weather systems are expected to bring severe dust and windstorms, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, with wind gusts reaching 80–100 km/h, and isolated gusts potentially up to 120 km/h in northeast Punjab.

Major urban centers including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Okara, Bahawalpur, and Rahim Yar Khan are likely to experience intense thunderstorm activity accompanied by high winds and possible power outages. Upper and northeastern Balochistan, including Quetta, Loralai, and Zhob, may face isolated storms with cooler temperatures dropping by 5–7°C.

In Sindh, scattered thunderstorms and dust storms are expected from May 1 onward, intensifying between May 3–5 in areas such as Dadu, Larkana, Jacobabad, Nawabshah, and Tharparkar. While these storms will help break the ongoing heatwave, temperatures will remain slightly above average until May 4.

Forecasters warn of potentially hazardous conditions across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab between April 30 and May 2, with visibility-reducing dust storms and strong wind gusts. Rain and thunderstorm activity will also be prominent in parts of Azad Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, Neelum, and Kotli.

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Authorities advise the public to remain alert for weather updates and warnings, especially if traveling through affected regions.