PDMA's Weather Forecast: Rain in Punjab and the Unprecedented Year of 2023



The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has recently issued a forecast that anticipates rainfall in various parts of Punjab from January 25 to 28. As the plains of the province are expected to be enveloped in dense fog towards the end of the month, the PDMA emphasizes the need for citizens to take precautionary measures. This forecast comes amidst a broader context of changing weather patterns, with 2023 being a notable year for meteorological records.

PDMA's Rain Forecast

Regions Affected and Varied Precipitation

According to the PDMA statement, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Multan, Rawalpindi, and several areas of the Gujranwala Division are likely to experience rainfall, while Murree and its surroundings can expect both rain and snowfall. This forecast prompts a call to action for citizens, urging them to exercise caution while traveling, particularly in areas prone to downpours.

Weather Advisory for Citizens

Cautionary Measures and Heater Safety

The PDMA spokesperson underscores the importance of citizens taking necessary precautions during adverse weather conditions. The statement particularly warns against carelessness in using heaters, emphasizing the potential fatal consequences. With dense fog and precipitation expected, adhering to safety guidelines becomes crucial for individuals navigating the weather.

Tourists' Precautions

Tourists are advised to review weather conditions before embarking on journeys, considering the unpredictable nature of the forecasted rain and snowfall. This recommendation aligns with the PDMA's commitment to ensuring the safety of individuals exploring the picturesque landscapes of Murree and its neighboring areas.

Meteorological Insights for 2023

Unusual Rainfall Patterns

The Meteorological Office has released details for the year 2023, indicating that the country experienced slightly more than normal rainfall during the period. The statistics reveal that there was a 16% increase in countrywide rainfall compared to the annual average. Notably, Baluchistan witnessed a substantial 29% excess, Sindh recorded 50% more rainfall, and Punjab experienced a 30% surplus.

Regional Disparities

However, regional disparities were evident, with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa experiencing an 11% deficit in rainfall, Azad Jammu and Kashmir recording 12% below average, and Gilgit-Baltistan receiving 10% less rainfall than normal. This divergence highlights the varying impact of weather patterns across different parts of the country.

Record-Breaking Seasonal Rain

The Met Office reported that 2023 marked the third consecutive year of excessive seasonal rainfall since 1961. A staggering 92% more seasonal rain was recorded nationwide compared to the average. Sindh and Punjab ranked 16th and 12th, respectively, in terms of excessive rains during this exceptional weather phenomenon.

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As Punjab braces itself for the forecasted rain, the intricate details of the meteorological landscape in 2023 unfold. The PDMA's proactive approach to issuing timely advisories reflects a commitment to public safety. The anomalies in rainfall patterns throughout the country underscore the importance of adaptive strategies in the face of changing climate dynamics.