The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted a significant cold wave across the country from December 8 to December 14, 2024. This weather pattern, attributed to a prevailing westerly wave over the upper regions of Pakistan, will result in a sharp drop in temperatures, frost conditions, and widespread cold weather.
Weather Forecast Highlights
- Rain-Wind/Thunderstorms with Snowfall:
- Upper Regions: Moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and snowfall is expected over the hilly areas.
- Affected Areas: Chitral, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Buner, Shangla, Manshera, Abbottabad, Kohistan, Astore, Ghizer, Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, and Neelum Valley.
- Specific Dates: December 8, 10, and 11, with occasional gaps.
- Cold Wave and Temperature Drops:
- Daytime temperatures are predicted to plummet by:
- 4°C to 6°C below normal in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
- 5°C to 7°C below normal in Sindh and Balochistan.
- Frost conditions are likely to develop over plains, further intensifying the cold.
- Daytime temperatures are predicted to plummet by:
- Light to Moderate Rain-Wind/Thunderstorms:
- Regions Affected: Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sialkot, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sargodha, Khushab, Faisalabad, and Jhang.
- Specific Date: December 8, 2024.
- Gusty Winds in Plains:
- Sindh, Balochistan, and parts of Punjab will experience cold weather accompanied by gusty winds.
Advisory and Precautionary Measures
The PMD has issued several guidelines to mitigate the effects of the cold wave:
For Farmers
- Plan agricultural activities keeping the frost forecast in mind.
- Protect crops and livestock from extreme cold and frost conditions.
For Tourists and Travelers
- Exercise caution while visiting mountainous regions due to the likelihood of snow-covered roads and slippery conditions.
- Ensure vehicles are equipped for cold weather and carry emergency supplies.
For General Public
- Minimize outdoor exposure during night and early morning hours to avoid cold-related illnesses.
- Dress in layers and stay warm, especially in areas with gusty winds.
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Impact of the Cold Wave
The ongoing weather conditions are expected to:
- Disrupt routine activities in frost-affected regions.
- Pose challenges to travel and tourism in hilly areas.
- Affect the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children.
Conclusion
As the cold wave grips Pakistan, it is crucial to stay updated with PMD forecasts and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and comfort. This period of chilly weather is a reminder of the changing seasons, bringing both beauty and challenges to different regions of the country.
Stay informed, prepared, and cautious during this cold spell.