Islamabad, Apr 11, 2025: Heavy rain and thunderstorms lashed several cities in Punjab and northern Pakistan on Friday, triggered by a new western disturbance affecting the northern parts of the country.
This weather system, accompanied by gusty winds and sporadic hailstorms, brought a welcome break from the sweltering heat, though it caused disruptions in certain regions.
In Lahore, ominous clouds gathered over the city before a torrential downpour, thunder, and lightning swept through different areas, providing much-needed relief to residents.
The rain, as predicted, arrived after an extended period of hot and dry conditions.
Faisalabad experienced thunderstorms early in the morning, accompanied by lightning and rain just before the Fajr prayer.
Read More: Widespread Rainfall to Soak Northern Regions
Images from Bhakkar revealed intense thunderstorms, with heavy winds and rain impacting daily activities.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) also reported similar weather patterns across regions such as Islamabad, the Potohar area, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
Rain and thunderstorms were also observed in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, southern Punjab, and parts of Balochistan over the past 24 hours.
Noteworthy rainfall included 15mm in Dir, 10mm in Pattan, and 9mm in Kalam.
Light rain was also recorded in Malam Jabba, Cherat, Saidu Sharif, and portions of Gilgit and Punjab.
In contrast, Karachi remained hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 33°C to 35°C, feeling hotter due to high humidity, which raised the perceived temperature to 37°C to 39°C.
Isolated thunderclouds were expected to form near the city’s outskirts.
The PMD has forecasted ongoing thunderstorms and rain in tourist destinations like Swat, Kalam, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, and Galiyat through Friday, with dry conditions returning over the weekend.
Authorities have urged both residents and tourists in northern areas to remain cautious, particularly in hilly regions where slippery roads and reduced visibility may present hazards.