Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Expected in Many Cities

Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a nationwide weather alert warning citizens of expected thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds in several major cities over the next 48 to 72 hours. The alert has raised concerns about urban flooding, traffic disruptions, power outages, and flight delays.

• Thunderstorms are expected in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and other cities

• Gusty winds up to 60–80 km/h may cause tree damage and signboard collapse

• High chance of lightning strikes, especially in open rural areas

• Urban flooding risk in low-lying areas of Punjab and Sindh

• PMD advises the public to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel

According to the latest PMD forecast, the following cities are likely to be affected:

• Lahore: Heavy thunderclouds forming, with chances of intense downpour

• Faisalabad: Gusty winds and scattered rain spells are expected

• Multan: Storms with high lightning probability

• Rawalpindi: Continuous showers are likely over the weekend

• Karachi: Light to moderate thunderstorms with a warning for coastal winds

• Hyderabad: Short, intense showers may cause waterlogging

• Sukkur: Thundercloud activity and possible hail

• Peshawar: Rainstorm with winds and thunder

• Abbottabad & Swat: Mountain thunderstorms and risk of landslides

• Quetta & Zhob: Expected lightning, localized showers

• Rain and snow are expected in higher altitudes, with the risk of rockfall

• A strong western disturbance is entering from Iran and Afghanistan

• Colliding with pre-monsoon moist currents from the Arabian Sea

• High surface temperatures are increasing cloud instability

"This is a classic early summer thunderstorm system, and we advise caution across urban centers," — PMD Spokesperson

Electric supply companies like LESCO, K-Electric, and IESCO have warned of potential supply disruptions due to:

• Downed transmission lines

• Transformer tripping during lightning strikes

• Water intrusion in electrical junctions

K-Electric issued a statement:

“Crews are on standby 24/7 to address any faults. Please report outages via our mobile app.”

Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) has asked airlines to remain alert due to:

• Low visibility during thunderstorms

• Runway waterlogging concerns

• Possible flight diversions for safety

Already, 5 domestic flights were delayed at Islamabad and Lahore airports this morning.

Pakistan Railways also warned of minor train delays, especially in northern and central regions.

Hospitals across affected cities have been instructed to:

• Maintain emergency wards on standby

• Stock up on IV drips, antibiotics, and wound care supplies

• Be prepared for the influx of weather-related injuries

Rescue 1122 and NDMA teams have activated their flood response protocols and issued helpline numbers for assistance.

"This system is intense and widespread. We may see urban flooding in areas with poor drainage."

"Karachi and Lahore’s infrastructure remains vulnerable. Timely drainage will be crucial."

Hashtags like #PakistanStorm, #LahoreRain, and #WeatherAlert trended on X (formerly Twitter), with people sharing dramatic videos of:

• Thunder rumbles over the skyline

• Lightning striking trees and rooftops

• Sudden downpours flood roads

This weather alert is not just about rain — it's a potential hazard if precautions aren’t taken. From urban flooding to power cuts, and traffic delays to flight disruptions, the impact will be felt across the board.