Rain Likely Across Most Punjab Cities Including Lahore, Snowfall Expected in Hilly Areas

Lahore: Under the influence of a western weather system, rain is expected today in most cities of Punjab, including Lahore, while thunderstorms accompanied by rain and snowfall are likely in the province’s hilly areas.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab, a weather system bringing rain to the plains and rain along with snowfall to mountainous regions is affecting large parts of the country.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) stated that on January 2, rain with thunder and snowfall is likely in the hilly areas of Punjab. Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat and the Potohar region are expected to receive rain and snowfall.

PDMA Punjab reported that light rain is also expected today in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sargodha, Khushab, Faisalabad, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Jhang and Toba Tek Singh. In Lahore, dark clouds have covered the sky since morning.

DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said that the rainfall will help reduce fog and smog conditions. He advised citizens to use face masks to protect themselves from smog and avoid unnecessary outings. He added that monitoring of the situation is underway round the clock at the PDMA control room.

The DG further urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions. Tourists visiting Murree were advised to take precautionary measures and follow official guidelines. Facilitation centers have been established at various locations in Murree for the convenience of tourists.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, motorists should avoid speeding and sudden braking, and use fog lights while traveling. In case of an emergency, citizens can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.

During the past 24 hours, rainfall was recorded in most districts of Punjab. Rawalpindi received 18 mm, Murree 12 mm, Sahiwal 8 mm, Mianwali 6 mm, Jhang 5 mm, while Chakwal, Joharabad, Multan and Toba Tek Singh recorded up to 4 mm of rain. Bhakkar, Narowal and Faisalabad received 3 mm, while Attock, Sargodha, Mandi Bahauddin and Shorkot recorded up to 2 mm of rainfall.

PDMA Punjab further reported rainfall in Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Jhelum, Okara, Sialkot, Hafizabad, Khanewal, Kot Addu, Layyah, Sheikhupura and Lahore. The recent rains have significantly reduced fog and smog conditions across the province.