The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted rain across Punjab, including Lahore, starting February 19, as a new weather system is expected to enter the region on February 18. The system is set to bring showers to the provincial capital and other areas, according reports. Lahore, currently experiencing dry and chilly weather, is likely to see a shift towards wetter conditions by midweek.
Today, Lahore recorded a minimum temperature of 10°C, with the maximum expected to reach 24°C. The rain forecast for February 19 is expected to bring relief to some, though cooler temperatures will accompany the showers. Meanwhile, Karachi has seen rising temperatures, with the city recording a maximum of 33.2°C yesterday. However, weather experts have cautioned about fog and low visibility in Karachi over the weekend, which could disrupt traffic.
In other parts of Pakistan, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, cold weather continues to grip the region. Several districts have already experienced rain, and mountainous areas like Chitral and Swat have been blanketed with snow. Kalam recorded the heaviest snowfall, with up to 17 inches, while Malam Jabba and Chitral received two and one inches of snow, respectively. The cold wave has driven temperatures in these areas to lows of -4°C in Parachinar, -2°C in Malam Jabba, and -1°C in Kalam.
Residents in Upper and Lower Chitral, Dir, Swat, and other northern districts are bracing for continued rain and snowfall. The authorities have advised the public to take precautionary measures, as travel and daily routines may be affected. Murree, the popular hill station, is expected to be the coldest location with temperatures dropping to -2°C at night, while Rawalpindi and other urban centers in Punjab will see minimum temperatures between 8°C and 11°C.
As the weather system moves through, Lahore and other parts of Punjab should prepare for a wet and chilly spell, with the rain likely to persist for a few days, adding to the already cool conditions across the province.
