Thunderstorm Alert: Rain and Strong Winds Expected Across Punjab and KP

A thunderstorm system is expected to bring rain, strong winds and possible hailstorms to large parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. Here is what to expect, which areas are most exposed, and how to stay safe.

Thunderstorm Pakistan: What the Forecast Says

The Met Office expects a westerly weather system to trigger scattered to widespread thunderstorms across Pakistan’s northern and central regions. Key features of the forecast include:

• Rain with thunder and lightning in upper and central Punjab, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala and Sialkot.
• Strong gusty winds in KP districts, particularly Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and adjoining areas.
• Possible hailstorms in isolated locations, which can damage standing crops and vehicles.
• A noticeable drop in daytime temperatures during and after the rain spells.

Areas Most at Risk

Urban centres face the risk of urban flooding where drainage is poor, while low-lying neighbourhoods in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Peshawar should watch for waterlogging. In rural areas, farmers with wheat and other standing crops are advised to take precautionary measures against hail and wind damage.

Safety Precautions During Thunderstorms

• Stay indoors during lightning activity — avoid open fields, rooftops and tall isolated trees.
• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect against power surges caused by lightning strikes.
• Avoid flooded roads — even shallow-looking water can hide open manholes or strong currents.
• Secure loose items on rooftops and balconies before strong winds arrive.
• Delay travel if possible during the heaviest downpours, especially on motorways where visibility drops sharply.

What to Do If Caught Outside

If you are outdoors when a storm hits, seek shelter in a sturdy building or a hard-topped vehicle. Avoid metal structures, fences and hilltops during lightning. If you are driving, slow down, switch on headlights, and pull over safely if visibility becomes dangerously low.

Protecting Your Home and Property

Thunderstorms cause more property damage than most people expect. Before the system arrives, clear rooftop drains and gutters so rainwater flows away freely, trim dead or overhanging tree branches near your house, and park vehicles away from trees and billboards that strong winds can topple. If you live in a low-lying area prone to waterlogging, keep sandbags or barriers ready and move valuables to higher shelves.

Farmers should pay special attention: hailstorms can devastate standing crops in minutes. Where possible, cover high-value produce and secure tube-well equipment and temporary structures.

After the Storm: What to Check

• Electrical safety: Do not touch fallen power lines — report them to your local distribution company immediately.
• Structural damage: Check boundary walls, water tanks and rooftop structures loosened by high winds.
• Water contamination: In flooded areas, boil drinking water until supplies are confirmed safe.
• Road conditions: Check traffic advisories before driving, as underpasses and low roads may still be submerged.

Emergency Helplines

• Rescue 1122 — for medical emergencies and rescue services (Punjab and KP).
• PDMA helplines — provincial disaster management authorities issue updates during severe weather.
• Met Office updates — check the Pakistan Meteorological Department website for the latest advisories.

Weather systems can shift quickly, so keep an eye on official forecasts before making travel plans. For more national updates, visit our Pakistan News section.