ISLAMABAD: Light to moderate rain has hit Islamabad on Wednesday (today), turning the weather chilly in the federal capital.
As per details, the rain started at 12:30 pm in Islamabad on December 31st (today).
A large number of people are expected to visit recreational spots, including Damn-i-Koh, Pir Sohawa, Lake View Park, Rawal Dam and Pakistan Monument with family to enjoy the pleasant weather on the New Year eve.
Rain is expected in the different areas of Balochistan’s Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qila Abdullah and Qila Saifullah and areas of Noshki, Zhob, Kalat, Barkhan and Musa Khel may also receive rain with thunderstorm.
Thunderstorms are expected in Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi and Bannu, while Peshawar, Waziristan, Karak and Kohat may experience strong winds with thunder and rain. Meanwhile, intermittent rain and snowfall are expected in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Karachi rain
Following a long dry patch in Karachi, first rain of winter hit the provincial capital today.
According to Pakistan Meteorological Department, a westerly wind system has entered Pakistan and which resulted in rain in Karachi today.
The Met Office said that light rain was received in the metropolis on the night of December 30.
Balochistan rain
A powerful weather system entered Balochistan bringing rain to most areas of the province.
Light showers were recorded in rural areas including Jiwani and Gwadar, the rain led to an increase in intensity and degree of cold. Due to pleasant weather a wave of happiness and joy spread among citizens.
Meteorological department forecast more rainfall across the region.
There is a strong possibility of an increase in dam levels and reduction in water crisis in hilly areas due to rain.
The rain has led to an end to a prolonged drought in the area. Water has started flowing in rivers and streams and agricultural lands are expected to benefit and yield more.
NDMA issues warning
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA has issued warning that the westerly wave that has entered the country would intensify from today (Tuesday).
Due to this system rain is expected in most upper and central parts of the country from December 31 and would continue till January 2.
Under this system, snowfall is expected in northern parts of the country including Swat, Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galliyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch and Haveli
The NDMA has warned tourists to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel to hilly regions during the current spell.
Snow in Murree
In view of the expected snowfall in Murree, the Chief Secretary Punjab has directed the district administration and related institutions to remain alert.
A meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary at the Civil Secretariat to review the arrangements in Murree.
The meeting decided to keep machinery ready to remove snow from the roads.
The authorities agreed to maintain the flow of traffic at all costs.
Instructions were issued to keep heavy machinery active for the clearance of roads.
The Chief Secretary said that the process of salting and snow removal should be started immediately as soon as snowfall starts.
He directed that special measures be taken for the flow of traffic during snowfall.
Also read: Will Islamabad’s Margalla Hills receive snowfall?
