ISLAMABAD, Mar 09 (DNA): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday predicted heavy rain, wind, and thunderstorm in the upper parts of the country from March 9-12 due to the effect of a westerly wave.

The westerly wave approaching from the west is likely to trigger widespread and potentially unsettled weather conditions across multiple regions.

Under the influence of this weather system, the districts of Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, along with Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, are expected to bear the brunt of the system.

These areas are forecast to experience partly cloudy to fully overcast skies, accompanied by moderate rain, strong winds, and thunderstorm activity, with heavy downpours likely at times.

This spell is expected to begin from Monday evening and last through March 12.

Meanwhile, lighter rain and thunderstorm activity is also anticipated across a broader belt of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on March 10 and March 11. The districts of Khyber, Mohmand, Peshawar, Swabi, Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera, Bajaur, Bannu, Waziristan, Orakzai, Kurram, Kohat, Hangu, and Mianwali are all expected to witness spells of light rain and gusty winds during this period.

The federal capital and its surrounding areas are also not expected to be spared. Islamabad, the Pothohar region, Murree, Galliyat, and nearby areas are forecast to receive rain and thunderstorm activity from the night of March 9 through March 11, with occasional breaks in between. Hailstorms at isolated places is additionally likely across Islamabad and the upper parts of the country during the forecast period.

The Met Office has warned of several possible impacts associated with this weather system.

Daytime temperatures across upper Pakistan are expected to drop by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius.

There is also a risk of landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, and residents of these regions are urged to exercise caution. Tourists planning to visit northern areas are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this period and to remain alert to changing conditions.

The farmers across the affected regions are encouraged to take appropriate measures to protect their crops in light of the forecast.

The Met Office has flagged a concern regarding air quality. Owing to the prevailing situation in Iran, winds blowing into Pakistan may carry pollutants that could significantly deteriorate air quality, particularly in the western parts of the country.

The authorities and the general public are urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and take all necessary precautions for their safety.