Web Desk: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) say conditions are increasingly favorable for heatwave development in the coming weeks, particularly across the plains of southern Punjab and Sindh, as the country enters a warmer-than-usual spring season.
PMD further said in its seasonal outlook for March through May that average temperatures are likely to stay above historical levels across much of the country. Forecasters expect the most significant temperature departures in northern regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
According to the department, persistent warming combined with seasonal weather patterns could lead to heatwave conditions later in spring, with southern Punjab and Sindh among the most vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, elevated temperatures in mountainous regions may bring additional risks. PMD warned that warmer-than-usual conditions in Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could accelerate the melting of seasonal snowpacks, potentially heightening the risk of glacial lake outburst floods as the season progresses.
Despite the temperature outlook, rainfall across the country is expected to remain close to seasonal norms overall.
However, forecasters anticipate slightly above-average rainfall in parts of central and western Pakistan. Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, along with neighboring districts of central Punjab and northern Balochistan, could see higher precipitation due to more active spring systems driven by westerly weather disturbances.
In contrast, Sindh, much of central and southern Balochistan, northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive rainfall broadly consistent with typical seasonal patterns.
PMD also highlighted several short-term weather hazards likely during the transition into spring. Temperature contrasts developing across regions could trigger episodes of dust storms, strong winds and occasional hailstorms in the coming weeks.
Such weather swings are common during the season but may intensify as temperatures rise, the department said.
Urban residents may also face an earlier-than-usual pollen surge. Cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Lahore could experience a premature peak in airborne pollen levels.
Meteorologists noted that rainfall occurring after mid-March could prolong the pollen season, potentially worsening symptoms for people with allergies and respiratory conditions.
Agricultural experts also warned that rising temperatures across the plains could accelerate pest and disease activity in Rabi crops. Farmers may need to monitor fields more closely and respond quickly to outbreaks to protect yields.
PMD emphasised that its seasonal forecast provides a general picture of climate trends rather than precise daily weather predictions. Officials urged authorities, farmers and the public to rely on shorter-term forecasts and advisories for operational planning and day-to-day decisions.
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