Islamabad, March 30, 2026: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across Pakistan starting April 1. The system, caused by a westerly wave, may persist until April 4, affecting multiple provinces with heavy rain, hail, and snow over mountains. Citizens are advised to remain cautious due to potential flash floods and landslides.
The PMD said the westerly wave will hit southwestern Balochistan first, impacting Panjgur, Turbat, Kech, Awaran, Gwadar, Lasbela, Quetta, Kalat, and Mastung. Isolated heavy rainfall and hail are expected, along with occasional gaps in precipitation. Flash floods in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan and northeastern Balochistan are possible.
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In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain and thunderstorms are forecasted for Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu, Tank, and Waziristan. Mountain areas may receive snowfall, while landslides could occur in vulnerable regions. Local streams and nullahs are at risk of flash flooding.
Punjab and Sindh will also see rainfall with isolated hailstorms. In Punjab, areas including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan may experience showers. In Sindh, Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Tharparkar, and Larkana could face rain and hail. Heavy downpours are likely in Dera Ghazi Khan surroundings.
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Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir will see rain and snowfall over mountains, affecting Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Diamir, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and Mirpur. The PMD warned that strong winds, lightning, and hail could damage weak structures such as solar panels, billboards, and electric poles. Tourists and residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel.