PMD Forecast: Rain, Windstorm and Hailstorm Expected in Upper Parts of Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain, windstorms and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms in the upper parts of the country. According to the Met Office, rain-windstorm/thunderstorm with isolated hailstorm is expected at isolated places in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad and Kashmir, while Sindh and most of Balochistan will remain mainly hot and dry.

The PMD has cautioned that windstorms, hailstorms and lightning may damage weak structures such as signboards, solar panels and loose roofs. Day temperatures are likely to drop by 2 to 4°C in the affected areas during the forecast period, and farmers have been advised to plan their crop activities accordingly.

Where the storms are expected

• Punjab and Islamabad: rain-windstorm/thunderstorm with isolated hailstorm at isolated places
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: rain-windstorm/thunderstorm with isolated hailstorm, including upper districts such as Dir and Chitral
• Kashmir: rain-windstorm/thunderstorm with isolated hailstorm at isolated places
• Balochistan: mainly hot and dry, though rain-windstorm/thunderstorm may occur at isolated places
• Sindh: mainly hot and dry weather expected

PMD’s caution and advisory

The Met Office warns that the combination of gusty winds, hail and lightning can pose a risk to weak structures, standing crops and outdoor activity. Residents in the upper regions are advised to:

• Secure loose outdoor items, signboards and solar panels
• Avoid open areas and tall trees during thunderstorms
• Stay indoors when lightning is frequent
• Farmers should schedule sowing, harvesting and pesticide spraying around the forecast

Temperature trend

Day temperatures are expected to dip by 2–4°C during the wet spell, bringing a noticeable break from the recent dry warmth in the plains of Punjab and the twin cities. Night-time temperatures in the northern areas will remain cool, typical of the season.

Why this spell matters

Early October weather patterns in upper Pakistan often bring transitional storms as westerly systems interact with local moisture. While the rain can benefit late-season crops, the accompanying hail and strong winds are the main threat — a short burst of hail can damage fruit orchards and standing maize in the Potohar region and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

FAQs

Which areas will get rain, windstorms and hailstorms according to the PMD?

The PMD expects rain-windstorm/thunderstorm with isolated hailstorm at isolated places in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad and Kashmir. Sindh and most of Balochistan will stay mainly hot and dry.

How much will temperatures drop during this weather spell?

Day temperatures are likely to drop by 2–4°C in the affected areas during the forecast period.

What precautions has the PMD advised?

The Met Office has cautioned that windstorms, hailstorms and lightning may damage weak structures, and advised farmers to plan crop activities keeping the forecast in view.

Will there be rain in Karachi or other parts of Sindh?

No. The PMD forecast says Sindh will remain mainly hot and dry during this spell, which is concentrated in the upper parts of the country.