08 Feb 2023 | 01:21 AM UTC
Pakistan: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Feb. 10
Severe weather forecast across much of Pakistan through at least Feb. 10. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across much of Pakistan through at least Feb. 10. As of early Feb. 8, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rainfall, strong winds, thunderstorms, and snowfall over mountainous areas in northern, central, and western parts of the country over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, thunderstorms, and snowfall in elevated areas are forecast over Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan administrative territories, as well as parts of northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and far northern Punjab provinces late Feb. 8-10. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms are likely in Islamabad Capital Territory, as well as the rest of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces Feb. 9-10. Light-to-moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and snowfall in elevated areas are forecast over parts of central and northern Balochistan Province. The department has warned that moderate-to-heavy snowfall could disrupt transport due to road closures in parts of northern Pakistan. Landslides are also possible on unstable slopes. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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.
