The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast a fresh spell of rain and snowfall in the country’s northern areas starting from November 4. The weather system is expected to bring moderate to heavy rain and snow over the next few days.
According to the Met Office, the upcoming rainfall will mainly affect upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the northern parts of Punjab. In these regions, temperatures are likely to drop significantly due to cold winds and continuous precipitation.
The PMD has advised residents and tourists to take precautions while traveling to hilly areas, as the roads may become slippery due to snowfall. In addition, the authorities have been alerted to remain on standby to handle any weather-related disruptions, especially in mountainous regions.
Meanwhile, the Met Office added that this weather system could help reduce smog and air pollution levels in Punjab, particularly in Lahore and surrounding cities. The expected rainfall will help settle dust particles and improve overall air quality, which has been worsening over the past several weeks.
This development comes shortly after Lahore recorded one of its most severe smog days of the season. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) had risen to hazardous levels, prompting health warnings and restricted outdoor activities. The upcoming rain is likely to provide much-needed relief to the residents facing breathing difficulties due to the poor air conditions.
For several weeks, experts have been urging the government to implement strong anti-smog measures. The rain forecast, therefore, offers a natural and temporary solution to ease the situation. To understand how earlier rainfall in Lahore improved visibility and reduced air pollution
According to the PMD, similar rain patterns may also occur in central and southern Punjab during the next phase of this system. The northern areas, including Skardu and Hunza, are expected to receive early winter snowfall, attracting tourists seeking scenic views of snow-covered mountains. However, local authorities have reminded travelers to check weather updates before planning trips, as heavy snowfall could block major routes.
Earlier, the Met Office had also highlighted that rainfall could impact visibility for drivers and flight schedules at northern airports. Travelers have been advised to plan accordingly.
