The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms for Rawalpindi and other upper regions of Pakistan [1].
These weather patterns can disrupt daily commutes and agricultural activities in Punjab province, where sudden hailstorms often cause localized damage to crops and infrastructure.
According to the PMD, the weather system is being driven by a westerly wave [2]. This atmospheric disturbance is expected to bring dust-thunderstorms and rain to various parts of the country between June 2 and June 5, 2024 [1, 2].
"The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across the country's upper regions from June 2 to June 5," the PMD said in a statement reported by Suchtv.pk [1].
The forecast follows a period of inconsistent weather alerts in the region. Earlier reports from the National Disaster Management Authority indicated that Punjab was bracing for rain and hail until May 23, 2024 [3].
While the current forecast focuses on the upper regions, other reports suggest that hot weather will continue to persist in the southern parts of the country. The PMD said the current influence of the westerly wave specifically targets the northern and upper territories [2].
Residents in Rawalpindi and surrounding areas are advised to monitor updates as the window for these storms remains open through June 5, 2024 [1].
“The PMD has forecast widespread rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across the country's upper regions”
The shift from late-May alerts to early-June forecasts suggests a volatile transition into the summer monsoon season for northern Pakistan. The reliance on a 'westerly wave' indicates that the weather is being driven by mid-latitude disturbances rather than typical tropical patterns, which often results in the unpredictable combination of dust storms and hail seen in the Punjab region.
