Widespread rain, snowfall forecast

ISLAMABAD—Meteorological Department forecast scattered rains and thunderstorm in most parts of Punjab from Jan 5 to 8. According to Met office, Murree and adjoining areasare likely to receive heavy snowfall during next week. A strong westerly weather system has approached Balochistan and Northern areas. Later it is likely to spread to other parts of the country in the next 48 hours. This weather system is likely to persist for about a week. While in Kashmir, Northern Areas includingquake affected areas, widespread rains and snowfall at times heavy in most parts of the area during Jan 4 to 11. The possibility of landslides and local flash flooding cannot be ruled out. Airlines operations during the period is also expected to be affected badly during the period, according to Met office. In NWFP, widespread rains and thunderstorm attimes heavy in most parts of NWFP between Jan 4o 10. Northern parts of the province are likely to receiveheavy snowfall during the period. Lowari Pass is expected to be closed due to heavysnowfall. In Balochistan, widespread rain and thunderstorm attimes heavy falls associated with snowfall over the hills is expected in Balochistan between Jan 4 to 9. —Online