Weather alert: Torrential monsoon rains expected across multiple regions of Pakistan

PMD warns heavy monsoon rains may disrupt daily life and cause flash floods

Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of significant monsoon activity across upper and central Pakistan this week, potentially disrupting daily routines and causing extensive environmental impacts.

In a statement, PMD reports that strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal will penetrate the northern and central regions from July 3.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and surrounding areas

Expectations of rain and thunderstorms, including heavy to very heavy falls, are high for areas like Neelum Valley and Muzaffarabad from July 3 to July 7. These conditions may lead to occasional severe weather gaps.

Punjab and Islamabad

A similar pattern is forecasted with rain and thunderstorms in cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. The intensity may vary, causing occasional heavy falls through July 7.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa

The province is bracing for potentially isolated very heavy falls among general thunderstorms, particularly in areas like Peshawar and Kohat, starting from July 3.

Balochistan and Sindh

While mostly experiencing hot and humid conditions, eastern Balochistan and parts of Sindh, including Umarkot and Sukkur, are also expected to receive rain and thundershowers from July 4.

Gilgit-Baltistan

Partly cloudy to cloudy conditions are prevalent, with rainfall expected in areas such as Skardu and Gilgit during the week.

Advisories

The PMD has issued advisories due to the likelihood of flash floods in streams of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and other areas, as well as potential urban flooding in cities like Lahore and Peshawar from July 4 to 7.

Landslides are a risk in hilly regions such as Murree and the Galliyat. The heavy rainfall might also pose risks to weak structures and disrupt farming and travel activities.