Lahore, the capital of Punjab, is set to experience heavy rainfall as a westerly wave sweeps across the region, according to the latest update from the Meteorological Office. The city has already witnessed a light drizzle in various areas, accompanied by cold winds, creating a chilly atmosphere.
The Met Office advisory indicates that the westerly wave, affecting western and upper parts of the country, expected to strengthen in the next 12 hours. As a result, rain, wind, and thunderstorms anticipated in several areas, including Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur.
Additionally, the Met Office forecasts rain, wind, thunderstorms, and snowfall in Murree, Galliyat, and surrounding areas, with the possibility of moderate to heavy falls and hailstorms at isolated places. Multan, Bhakkar, Kot Addu, Layyah, Rajanpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan expected to experience light to moderate rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms.
In terms of temperature, Lahore recorded a minimum of 12 degrees Celsius, and the maximum expected to reach around 20 degrees Celsius. Intermittent rainfall predicted throughout the day, with humidity levels hovering around 90 percent. Residents advised to stay prepared for sporadic showers and dress accordingly.
Despite the rainfall, the air quality in Lahore remains unhealthy, with a PM2.5 concentration 31 times higher than the WHO annual air quality guideline value.
Looking ahead, the Met Office states that a new westerly wave will impact upper and central parts of the country, bringing moderate to heavy rain, wind, thunderstorms, and snowfall over the hills. The affected areas include Islamabad and Punjab, encompassing Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur from the night of February 17 to February 21.
