Intermittent rains, gusty winds, and isolated hailstorms are expected to lash Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several other parts of Pakistan over the next few days, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a westerly wave is currently affecting the upper regions of the country and is expected to intensify, leading to unsettled weather conditions.
The twin cities, along with upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northeast Balochistan, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, are likely to experience intermittent showers and strong winds from Tuesday night through Thursday, with the possibility of hailstorms in some areas.
Temperatures in Islamabad are forecasted to hover between 33°C and 35°C on Wednesday and Thursday, slightly rising to 34°C–36°C by Friday. Similarly, Rawalpindi will see highs of 33°C–35°C during the same period, peaking at 34°C–36°C on Friday.
The recent spell of rain and thunderstorms on Tuesday evening brought a noticeable drop in temperatures, providing respite to residents who had been enduring sweltering conditions. Some areas in Islamabad’s F-6 sector even reported a brief hailstorm amid heavy winds.
Meanwhile, other parts of the country continue to bake under intense heat. Dadu remained the hottest city in Pakistan, recording a blistering 47°C, followed by Sibbi at 46°C. Several cities, including Mohenjo-Daro, Nawabshah, and Rahim Yar Khan, sizzled at 45°C. Karachi, Multan, and Dera Ismail Khan also experienced highs of around 40°C.
Authorities have issued warnings as extreme weather patterns persist. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has alerted residents of potential thunderstorms and heavy rains in Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Chakwal, and other districts from April 8 to April 11. Additionally, a heatwave alert remains in place for Sindh, South Punjab, and parts of Balochistan, with citizens advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
Looking ahead, the PMD predicts that the westerly wave will bring more rain and gusty winds to Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding regions on Thursday. However, hot and dry conditions are expected to return by Friday and Saturday, with temperatures settling between 29°C and 34°C in the twin cities.
As the weather fluctuates between relief and extreme heat, authorities urge the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions to cope with the unpredictable conditions.
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