The prolonged dry season in Punjab is set to end as authorities announce the arrival of a westerly weather system, bringing rain to most districts and snowfall in hilly areas over the coming days.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab (PDMA) and the Meteorological Department have confirmed that a westerly wind system will enter Punjab from January 16 and remain active until Jan 19.

PDMA Punjab said this system marks the formal end of the dry season and the beginning of a rainy spell across the province.

Rain expected in most districts of Punjab

According to PDMA, rain is expected in a majority of Punjab’s districts from January 20 to 23. Cities likely to receive rainfall include Lahore, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Multan, and Faisalabad.

Also Read: Severe cold wave alert issued for Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, Kashmir

Rain has also been forecast for Dera Ghazi Khan Division and Bahawalpur Division, PDMA officials said.

Heavy snowfall in Murree, Galiyat

PDMA has warned of heavy snowfall and rain in Murree, Galiyat, and other hilly areas from January 20 to 23. Tourist destinations in these regions are expected to see significant weather activity, raising the risk of road blockages and travel disruptions.

PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia said alerts have been issued to all commissioners, deputy commissioners, and relevant administrative officers across Punjab.

He directed district administrations to complete all necessary arrangements in advance to deal with any emergencies arising from rain or snowfall.

Tourists urged to take precautions

The DG advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during bad weather conditions. He specifically urged tourists visiting Murree and surrounding areas to take precautionary measures and strictly follow official instructions.

Authorities said timely preparedness and public cooperation will be key to minimizing risks during the upcoming wet spell.

A day ago, the Met Dept had forecast intermittent rain and snowfall in several parts of the country next week as a westerly weather system enters Pakistan, urging citizens to take precautionary measures.

Also Read: Rain forecast in Punjab, other parts of Pakistan next week

According to the Meteorological Department, a weak westerly wind system will begin affecting the country from January 16. The intensity of the system is expected to increase from January 20, while it will cover wider areas of the country from January 21 onward.

Snowfall expected in northern regions

Rain and snowfall are forecast in Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir from tomorrow until January 19. The Met Office said snowfall and rain are also likely in Murree and the Galiyat region from January 18 to 20.

Rain forecast for Islamabad, Punjab

Rain is expected in Islamabad from January 20 to 23. During the same period, rain is also likely in various districts of Punjab, which may bring relief from dry weather but could disrupt daily routines.

The upper areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to receive rain and snowfall on January 23. Meanwhile, different districts of Balochistan are likely to experience rain and snowfall from January 21 to 23.