Pakistan: Adverse weather forecast across northern and eastern regions through at least Jan. 25 /update 1

19 Jan 2023 | 11:43 AM UTC

Severe weather forecast across much of northern and eastern Pakistan through at least Jan. 25. Disruptions ongoing in Balochistan Province.

Warning

transportation

environment

communications/technology

PAK

Event

As disruptions continue across Balochistan province following heavy rain and snowfall, further adverse weather is forecast to impact much of northern and eastern Pakistan through at least Jan. 25. As of Jan. 19, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rainfall and snowfall over mountainous areas over northern and western parts of the country over the coming days. The most severe weather is forecast over Azad Jammu and Kashmir and parts of northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and far northern Punjab provinces Jan. 23-25. Moderate to heavy snowfall, rainfall, and strong winds are forecast in these regions. Light-to-moderate rainfall with snow and hail in elevated areas is forecast over Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltsitan, Islamabad Capital Territory, and parts of Khyber Pakthunkhwa and Punjab provinces Jan. 21-24. Light rainfall is expected in parts of Punjab and Sindh provinces Jan. 20-21. Landslides are possible following heavy precipitation in parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Temperatures are also likely to fall across much of Pakistan during the period of adverse weather. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Disruptions are ongoing across much of Balochistan following heavy rainfall and snowfall across the province Jan. 17-18. Heavy snowfall closed several mountain passes, and many other roads across the province were closed due to the adverse weather. Power outages and mobile communication disruptions have also been reported in parts of Balochistan. Authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan reported two fatalities after an avalanche occurred in the Naltar Valley Jan. 18.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Precipitation could fall as snow in higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Avalanches are possible in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall.

Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Pakistan Meteorological Department

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