PMD Issues Rain and Snowfall Alert for Pakistan: Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Murree and Northern Areas on Weather Watch
Introduction: Weather System Brings Rain and Snowfall Risk to Northern Pakistan
Pakistan is preparing for a change in weather as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds and possible snowfall across several northern and upper regions between November 11 and 14, 2026.
The approaching westerly weather system is expected to affect Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Islamabad, Rawalpindi, parts of Punjab and selected districts of northern Balochistan.
While rain and thunderstorms are expected in several lowland and urban areas, snowfall is possible over higher mountain elevations. Some locations may also experience isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms.
According to the PMD advisory issued on November 11 at 10:46am, the weather system is likely to strengthen on November 12 and may continue affecting upper parts of the country until the morning of November 14. The department has advised relevant authorities to remain alert and take precautionary measures.
The forecast is particularly important for people planning journeys to Murree, Galiyat, Swat, Chitral, Neelum Valley, Hunza and other northern destinations. Wet roads, strong winds, reduced visibility and falling temperatures could make some journeys more difficult.
PMD Explains the Approaching Westerly Weather System
The PMD has identified a shallow westerly wave approaching the western and northern parts of Pakistan.
A westerly wave is a weather system that moves from the west and can bring cloud cover, precipitation, thunderstorms and changes in temperature. Its effects depend on its strength, movement and interaction with local geographical conditions.
The current system approached the country on the evening of November 10 and is expected to strengthen on November 12.
The department forecasts rain, wind and thunderstorms across several districts, with occasional breaks rather than continuous rainfall everywhere.
Higher mountain areas may receive light snowfall, while isolated locations could experience heavier showers or hailstorms.
The PMD also expects daytime temperatures to decrease by approximately 2–4°C during the forecast period. Patches of fog may develop over plain areas after the wet spell.
These conditions mean residents should follow district-specific forecasts instead of assuming that every part of the country will experience the same weather.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Rain, Thunderstorms and Mountain Snowfall Expected
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is among the regions expected to experience widespread effects from the approaching weather system.
The PMD has forecast rain, gusty winds and thunderstorms across numerous districts from the evening or night of November 10 until the morning of November 14, with occasional gaps.
The forecast covers:
- Dir and Chitral
- Swat, Kohistan and Shangla
- Battagram, Mansehra and Abbottabad
- Haripur, Buner and Malakand
- Bajaur and Mohmand
- Kohat, Peshawar and Mardan
- Swabi, Charsadda and Nowshera
- Khyber, Orakzai and Kurram
- Hangu, Lakki Marwat and Karak
- Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan and Waziristan
Isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms are possible in some locations. Snowfall may also occur over higher mountain areas.
For residents, the main concerns include changing road conditions, strong winds and possible disruption to outdoor activities.
People travelling through mountainous parts of KP should check local weather information before departure, particularly when travelling through routes where rain or snowfall could reduce visibility.
Gilgit-Baltistan: Snowfall Possible in Higher Mountain Areas
Gilgit-Baltistan is also included in the PMD's weather advisory.
Rain, wind and thunderstorms are expected in several districts, while snowfall is possible over higher elevations.
The affected locations include:
- Gilgit
- Skardu
- Hunza
- Astore
- Diamir
- Ghizer
- Ghanche
- Shigar
The weather system may affect the region until the afternoon of November 14, with precipitation occurring intermittently.
This forecast is particularly relevant for tourists visiting mountain destinations. Changing weather can affect outdoor activities, road journeys and travel arrangements.
Visitors should avoid treating a general regional forecast as confirmation of conditions at a particular destination. Weather can differ significantly between valleys and higher elevations.
Before travelling, visitors should check the latest PMD information and local road updates.
Azad Kashmir: Rain and Snow Over Higher Hills
Azad Jammu and Kashmir is expected to experience rain, thunderstorms and possible snowfall over higher hills.
The PMD has included the following locations in its advisory:
- Neelum Valley
- Muzaffarabad
- Rawalakot and Poonch
- Hattian and Bagh
- Haveli and Sudhanoti
- Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur
The forecast extends until the afternoon of November 14, with occasional breaks in precipitation.
Neelum Valley and other mountainous destinations may experience changing conditions during the period. Travellers should pay attention to local weather information, particularly when planning longer journeys.
Rain and possible snowfall can affect visibility and make some roads slippery. Visitors should allow additional travel time and follow instructions from local authorities.
Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Murree: Rain Forecast for November 12 and 13
The latest PMD advisory is especially relevant to residents of the Islamabad-Rawalpindi region.
Light rain, wind and thunderstorms are expected in Islamabad, the Potohar region, Mianwali, Khushab, Bhakkar, Sargodha and Murree during the initial phase of the system.
More rain and thunderstorms are forecast for November 12 and 13 in:
- Rawalpindi and Islamabad
- Murree and Galiyat
- Attock, Chakwal and Jhelum
- Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat and Gujranwala
- Hafizabad and Wazirabad
- Lahore, Kasur and Sheikhupura
- Sialkot and Narowal
- Mianwali, Khushab and Sargodha
Isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms are possible in some locations.
For Rawalpindi and Islamabad residents, the forecast means that weather conditions may change during the coming days. People should remain prepared for rain and gusty winds, particularly when travelling during periods of active thunderstorms.
Murree and Galiyat visitors should take additional care because conditions in elevated areas can differ from those in the twin cities. The forecast includes rain and thunderstorms, but it does not mean that snowfall will occur across every part of Murree.
Snowfall is possible over higher mountain areas, depending on local temperatures and weather conditions.
Lahore and Other Punjab Cities May Experience Thunderstorms
Several other Punjab districts are included in the November 12 and 13 forecast.
Lahore, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Kasur, Sheikhupura and surrounding districts may experience rain, wind and thunderstorms.
The PMD has also identified Mianwali, Khushab, Bhakkar and Sargodha among the affected locations.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected in Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar and Multan on November 12.
The possibility of isolated hailstorms is an additional concern, particularly for agricultural areas.
Residents should secure loose outdoor objects and avoid exposed locations during thunderstorms. Drivers should also remain cautious on wet roads.
Northern Balochistan: Rain and Hailstorms Possible
Most districts of Balochistan are expected to remain mainly dry during the forecast period. However, the PMD has identified several northern and western districts where rain and thunderstorms are possible.
The affected locations include:
- Quetta
- Zhob
- Barkhan
- Musakhel
- Ziarat
- Chaman
- Qila Abdullah
- Qila Saifullah
- Kalat
- Khuzdar
- Duki, Harnai, Pishin and Sherani
- Surab
Isolated hailstorms may occur during the night of November 11 and on November 12.
Most districts of Sindh are also expected to remain mainly dry.
The regional differences highlight why residents should consult local forecasts rather than relying only on national weather headlines.
Possible Impacts on Roads, Tourism and Agriculture
The PMD's forecast includes several weather conditions that could affect daily activities.
Road travel: Rain and possible snowfall can make roads slippery, while thunderstorms may reduce visibility. Drivers travelling through mountainous areas should remain cautious.
Tourism: Visitors to Murree, Galiyat, Swat, Chitral, Neelum Valley and Gilgit-Baltistan may need to adjust their plans if local conditions deteriorate.
Agriculture: Hailstorms, heavy rainfall and strong winds may affect standing crops. The PMD has advised farmers to plan agricultural activities according to the expected weather.
Buildings and outdoor equipment: Strong winds and hailstorms may damage weak structures, billboards, electric poles, vehicles and unsecured outdoor items.
Fog after rainfall: Foggy conditions may develop in patches over plain areas after the wet spell, potentially affecting morning visibility.
The department has advised provincial and district authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautionary measures.
Six Safety Precautions for Residents and Travellers
People living in affected areas can take practical steps to reduce weather-related risks.
- Follow official forecasts: Check the latest PMD updates before travelling or arranging outdoor activities.
- Drive carefully: Reduce speed on wet roads, maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden braking.
- Prepare for colder weather: Carry warm clothing when visiting higher elevations where temperatures may fall or snowfall is possible.
- Reconsider unnecessary mountain journeys: If conditions deteriorate, postpone non-essential travel and follow local authority instructions.
- Secure outdoor belongings: Keep loose objects, equipment and other items secured where strong winds may affect them.
- Follow emergency instructions: Pay attention to announcements from district administrations, traffic authorities and emergency services.
Travellers should also check road conditions before beginning long journeys. A weather forecast alone cannot confirm that a particular road is safe or open.
When Will the Rain and Snowfall Spell End?
According to the PMD advisory issued on November 11, the westerly weather system is expected to strengthen on November 12.
It may continue affecting upper parts of Pakistan until the morning of November 14. In Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, the advisory extends the expected period of rain and snowfall over the hills until the afternoon of November 14.
The department expects precipitation to occur with occasional breaks, meaning rainfall will not necessarily continue throughout the entire period in every district.
Daytime temperatures may decrease by around 2–4°C. Fog may also develop in patches across plain areas after the wet spell.
Because forecasts can change as weather systems develop, residents should continue checking official updates throughout the period.
What the Latest PMD Advisory Means for Pakistan
The November 11 weather advisory signals an unsettled period for several northern and upper regions of Pakistan.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir are among the areas expected to experience rain and thunderstorms, with possible snowfall over higher elevations. Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree and several Punjab districts are also included in the forecast, particularly for November 12 and 13.
Northern Balochistan may receive isolated rain and hailstorms, while most of Sindh and other parts of Balochistan are expected to remain mainly dry.
For residents, the most important step is to understand the forecast for their own district. For tourists, checking local road and weather information before departure is essential.
The weather system may bring welcome rainfall to some areas, but heavy showers, hail, strong winds and mountain snowfall can also create difficulties.
For further Pakistan weather updates, official advisories and national news coverage, stay connected with IntelliNews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is rain expected in northern Pakistan?
The PMD has forecast rain, wind and thunderstorms from November 11 to 14, 2026, with the system expected to strengthen on November 12.
2. Which areas may receive snowfall?
Snowfall is possible over higher mountainous areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. It is not forecast across every town or valley.
3. Is rain expected in Rawalpindi and Islamabad?
Yes. The PMD has forecast light rain and thunderstorms in the region, with further rain expected in Rawalpindi and Islamabad on November 12 and 13.
4. Will Murree receive snowfall?
The forecast includes rain and thunderstorms in Murree and Galiyat. Snowfall is possible at higher elevations, but the advisory does not predict snowfall across all of Murree.
5. How long will the weather system remain active?
The system may continue affecting upper parts of Pakistan until the morning of November 14. The forecast for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan extends until the afternoon of that day.
6. Will Lahore receive rain?
Yes. Lahore is included in the PMD forecast for rain, wind and thunderstorms on November 12 and 13.
7. Will southern Pakistan receive rain?
Most of Sindh is expected to remain mainly dry. Some northern and western districts of Balochistan may receive rain and thunderstorms, while Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar and Multan are included in the November 12 forecast.
8. Where can people check official weather updates?
Residents can check the Pakistan Meteorological Department's official website for daily forecasts, weather warnings and advisories:
Pakistan Meteorological Department – Official Website
9. Is it safe to travel to northern Pakistan during this weather spell?
Travel decisions should depend on local weather, road conditions and instructions from authorities. Visitors should check updated forecasts and road information before departure, especially when travelling to mountainous areas.
About the Author
Amir Abbas covers Pakistan's national developments, weather updates, technology, sports and regional affairs for IntelliNews. His reporting focuses on presenting important developments in clear, accessible language while distinguishing official information from analysis.
Editorial Policy: IntelliNews aims to provide accurate and responsible public-interest reporting using official announcements and credible sources. Weather forecasts are subject to change. Readers should consult the Pakistan Meteorological Department and relevant local authorities for the latest conditions.
Sources and Further Reading
- Pakistan Meteorological Department – Official Rain and Snowfall Advisory, November 11, 2026 — Primary source for the district-wise forecast, expected weather conditions and precautionary advice.
- Pakistan Meteorological Department – Daily Weather Forecast, November 11, 2026 — Official provincial and city-level forecast information.
- Dawn – Rain, Snow in Northern Parts of the Country from Today, November 11, 2026 — Additional reporting on the PMD advisory and regional impacts.
Editorial note: This article is based on the PMD forecast available on November 11, 2026. Weather forecasts are not guarantees of actual rainfall or snowfall. Conditions and district-level warnings may change.