Chicago – April 20, 2025
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a weather advisory on Thursday, warning that hailstorms and heavy rainfall are expected to hit Islamabad and several cities in Punjab starting Friday.
This warning follows a powerful hailstorm and downpour that struck Islamabad and its surrounding areas a day earlier, damaging thousands of vehicles and shattering windows in homes.
Pakistan, already vulnerable to climate change, regularly experiences extreme weather, rising temperatures, and disruptions to farming patterns. Its dependency on the Indus River, fed by melting glaciers, and its geographical susceptibility to floods and droughts make it particularly prone to climate-related threats.
In its statement, the NDMA predicted strong winds, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms from April 18–19, which could impact infrastructure, transportation, and agriculture.
Cities at risk in central and upper Punjab include Lahore, Faisalabad, Jhelum, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Jhang, Khushab, Mianwali, Narowal, Sahiwal, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura.
The NDMA warned that strong winds and heavy rain might topple trees and cause temporary power outages. Hailstorms could also damage rooftops, fragile buildings, vehicles, and power lines, as well as harm crops and structures with glass surfaces. Rain combined with dust could lower visibility, increasing the chance of traffic accidents.
Residents and tourists were urged to stay updated via the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile app and follow official weather forecasts. The NDMA also advised travelers to check road conditions before heading out and avoid unnecessary trips during the storm. People living in areas prone to landslides were told to remain alert and comply with local safety instructions.
