The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a weather alert predicting rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds in several regions of Pakistan between March 9 and March 12. According to the forecast, various areas of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to experience unstable weather conditions.

Authorities have advised residents to stay informed about weather updates, especially in regions where thunderstorms and hailstorms may occur.

Rain and Winds Expected in the Potohar Region

Weather officials say the Potohar Plateau region may experience gusty winds and light rain during this period. Cities and districts expected to be affected include:

• Islamabad
• Rawalpindi
• Attock
• Chakwal
• Jhelum
• Mianwali

Meteorological experts also warned that hailstorms may occur in Islamabad and nearby upper areas of the Potohar region. Strong winds during thunderstorms could temporarily disrupt traffic and outdoor activities.

Rain Forecast for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

According to NDMA, several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to receive light rainfall accompanied by strong winds between March 9 and March 11.

Areas likely to experience rainfall include:

• Chitral
• Dir
• Haripur
• Kohat
• Mansehra
• Abbottabad
• Bannu
• Peshawar
• Swabi

Other districts such as Malakand, Mohmand, Kurram, and Buner may also experience similar weather conditions.

Weather Conditions in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir

Weather experts say partly cloudy conditions with chances of light rain will also affect some areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir until March 11.

Areas where rainfall is expected include:

• Gilgit
• Skardu
• Astore
• Hunza
• Diamer

In Azad Kashmir, rain is expected in places such as:

• Muzaffarabad
• Neelum Valley
• Bagh
• Hattian Bala
• Poonch

Light rainfall in these mountainous areas may also lead to colder weather conditions.

Weather Forecast for Pakistan’s Top 7 Largest Cities

The upcoming weather system may also influence conditions in some of Pakistan’s biggest urban centers. Here is a brief outlook for the top seven largest cities in the country.

1. Karachi

Karachi is expected to remain mostly dry and partly cloudy during this period. There is a low chance of rain, but temperatures may remain moderate with sea breezes.

2. Lahore

Light rain and cloudy weather are possible in Lahore, especially toward the end of the forecast period. Thunderstorms with strong winds could occur in some areas of the city.

3. Faisalabad

Faisalabad may experience partly cloudy weather with a possibility of light showers and gusty winds.

4. Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi is expected to receive light rainfall and strong winds, especially as the weather system moves across the Potohar region.

5. Multan

Multan may see cloudy weather with mild winds, although rainfall chances are relatively lower compared to northern areas.

6. Hyderabad

Hyderabad is likely to experience mostly dry weather with slightly cooler temperatures due to regional weather changes.

7. Peshawar

Peshawar could receive light rain accompanied by gusty winds, particularly between March 9 and March 11.

Safety Advice for the Public

Authorities have advised residents to take precautions during periods of heavy rain or thunderstorms. Safety recommendations include:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during storms
• Stay away from weak structures or trees during strong winds
• Drive carefully on wet roads
• Stay updated through official weather alerts

Farmers and travelers in mountainous areas should also remain cautious due to the possibility of sudden weather changes.

Conclusion

The National Disaster Management Authority has warned that rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds may affect several parts of Pakistan from March 9 to March 12. Regions including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to experience unstable weather conditions.

While northern areas may receive rainfall and hailstorms, some major cities like Karachi may remain mostly dry. Residents across the country are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and follow safety guidelines during this period.