Different regions of Pakistan experienced cool, pleasant weather due to varying degrees of rainfall, ranging from light to heavy showers that lasted for a couple of hours early in the morning, marking the arrival of the new season. These climatic shifts have not only transformed the landscape but also affected various aspects of daily life. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including North Waziristan and Bannu, heavy rain and strong winds have turned the weather pleasant. Hailstorms continued in different plain areas, including Dir, for the second consecutive day. While the hailstorm in the mountains has turned the weather even colder. The current spell of rains is forecast to continue till October 17.

The plain areas of Swat, including Mingora, Miandam, Kalam and Malam Jabba, have been experiencing intermittent showers since last night, as a result of which the mercury levels have dropped by two degrees in Kalam and four degrees in Malam Jabba. The mountains of Gabin, meanwhile, experienced snowfall. This spell of rainfall and snow is expected to continue for the next two to three days. Punjab also experienced varying degrees of rainfall.  Multan had its first rain of winter. Parts of Lahore saw light and heavy rain, including Gulberg, Jail Road, and Lawrence Road. Some areas like Ichhra, Kalma Chowk, Garden Town, and Johar Town also experienced moderate rainfall.  In Faisalabad, the light drizzle brought the mercury level down to 21 degrees Celsius.

While the rain brought some relief in terms of the weather, it also resulted in power outages, as 15 feeders of LESCO tripped in Lahore and 21 in Kasur. Electricity supply was also affected in areas like Okara, Sheikhupura, and Nankana Sahib. Restoration work will begin once the rain stops, as per the officials.In Karachi, the weather suddenly changed as predicted by the Meteorological Department. After a period of dust and pollution, the city experienced some drizzle, bringing relief from the heat. Rainfall was also reported in areas like Malir, Karsaz, and Super Highway.

In Balochistan's Lasbela district, heavy rain near Uthal led to flash floods in streams, blocking the Quetta-Karachi National Highway and causing traffic congestion. Light rain was reported in Jacobabad and Gwadar also, signalling the arrival of the winter season.  This turn in the weather is also expected to help Punjab deal with its ongoing spell of smog and clear the air for some time.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)