Pakistan’s twin cities may see more unstable weather in the coming hours, with authorities warning that thunderstorms and possible hailstorms could impact parts of northern Punjab and surrounding areas.
According to a report by Pakistan Meteorological Department cited by Dawn, a westerly weather system is currently influencing the upper regions of the country. The system has already brought light rain to Islamabad and Rawalpindi and could lead to stronger storms over the next 24 hours.
For car owners, that forecast raises a familiar seasonal concern: hail damage.
Rain Already Recorded in Twin Cities
Rain began late Monday night and continued into Tuesday across the Islamabad–Rawalpindi region. Meteorological officials recorded about 2mm of rainfall in the twin cities, while Murree received around 7mm.
Weather officials say the same system is expected to persist until at least March 12, bringing cloudy skies and intermittent rain across Islamabad, the Potohar region, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
More importantly for motorists, isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms are possible during thunderstorms in these areas.
How to Protect Your Car During Hailstorms
Drivers can take a few simple precautions when hail is expected:
Park under cover: A garage or basement parking is the safest option. If unavailable, look for covered parking areas such as under solid building awnings or multi-level plazas.
Use a car cover or thick blanket: A padded car cover can reduce the impact of hailstones and help prevent dents.
Avoid parking under weak trees: Branches can break during storms and cause more damage than the hail itself.
Check wipers and windshield condition: Thunderstorms often bring heavy rain and debris, so ensuring clear visibility is critical.
Monitor weather updates: Keep an eye on forecasts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department and local alerts before heading out.
Why Hailstorms Are a Concern for Car Owners
Hail may look harmless compared to flooding, but it can cause expensive vehicle damage within minutes. Even small hailstones can dent body panels, crack windshields, and damage mirrors or lights.
Automotive repair specialists often report spikes in dent repairs and windshield replacements after sudden spring hailstorms in northern Pakistan. If a storm hits while your vehicle is parked outdoors, the damage can be unavoidable.
What Happens Next
Weather officials say the current weather system could continue affecting northern regions until March 12, with intermittent rain and potential thunderstorms. Drivers in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas are advised to stay alert for sudden weather changes and plan parking accordingly.
Further updates are expected from the Pakistan Meteorological Department as the system evolves.
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