Weather update: Rain forecast for Lahore, other Punjab cities

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) stated that Lahore and most districts of Punjab will experience mild temperatures and dry weather on Sunday.PMD stated weather will remain mostly cloudy in Lahore and surrounding areas, with periods of sun and cloud cover. It said that there is a 10% chance of rain in the city.However, the PMD has stated that there are no significant chances of rainfall in most parts of the province, and dry weather is expected to prevail.In Lahore, the minimum temperature has been recorded at 10°C, with a maximum expected temperature of 25°C.However, in the hill stations of Murree, Galyat, and nearby areas, cloudy skies will bring light rain and light snowfall.On the other hand, authorities have decided to conclude the snowfall emergency season in Murree by February 28 after an exceptionally dry winter caused a major economic setback for businesses relying on tourism.Due to the lack of snowfall, traders and shopkeepers from Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and local markets have suffered losses worth millions.This season, neither families nor children were able to enjoy the snow, nor did businesses flourish as expected.Murree’s winter season usually lasts from December 20 to February 15, but this year’s minimal snowfall disrupted the entire tourism cycle. Temporary vendors selling toys, horse rides, and street food also faced a slump in business.To account for the possibility of late snowfall, the snowfall emergency was extended until February 28, but with Ramazan approaching, Murree’s winter tourism season is practically over.Once the emergency ends, additional officials and personnel deployed in Murree will return to Rawalpindi, and 19 special facilitation centers will be deactivated.The dry season has not only impacted Murree’s economy but also lowered underground water levels and reduced dam reserves in the Rawalpindi division.The lack of snowfall has discouraged tourists from across the country, and for the first time in years, Murree did not experience traffic congestion due to excessive visitor inflows.