The Met Department has forecasted rain accompanied by gusty and dusty winds across various regions of the country starting Friday night, with weather conditions expected to ease the ongoing heatwave gripping upper Pakistan.

According to the Met Office, rain and windstorms are likely to hit Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Hazara, Swat, and Mardan, while similar weather patterns are expected in Peshawar, Charsadda, Lahore, Gujrat, Sialkot, and Sheikhupura.

The Met Department also predicted rainfall in Karak, Malakand, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan, and southern districts including Zhob, Barkhan, Ziarat, Sargodha, Rajanpur, Bhakkar, and Layyah on May 24.

Officials warned that strong winds could damage trees, solar panels, and power poles, and urged the public to take necessary precautions.

"This expected weather system will likely reduce the intensity of the ongoing heatwave in northern and central regions," the department said in a statement.

PDMA issues rain alert across Punjab

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a wind and rain alert for May 23 and 24, warning of potential weather disruptions in most districts of the province, including Lahore. The district administration has been issued an alert.

Speaking to the media, PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia said alerts had been dispatched to the School Education Department, Health, Irrigation, Construction and Communications, Local Government, and Livestock Departments to stay prepared for the developing situation.

“The current wave of rainfall will significantly reduce heat and ease pressure on vulnerable populations affected by the heatwave,” he noted.

Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during windstorms and to seek safe shelter to protect themselves from lightning and other potential hazards.