The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning of heavy rains, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the country starting August 17, as monsoon activity is expected to escalate. The wet spell will bring widespread rainfall to various regions, heightening the risk of flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas.
As the monsoon season continues to impact Pakistan, the PMD has forecast widespread rain, thunder, and wind across the nation in the coming days. The intensified monsoon activity, set to begin on August 17, will bring heavy showers to various regions, including Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and several parts of Balochistan and Sindh.
The forecast indicates that areas such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and regions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will experience scattered heavy rainfalls from August 14 to 17. From August 18, these rains will extend to more northern areas such as Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and various districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. The southern districts of the country, including parts of Bannu, Waziristan, and Dera Ismail Khan, will also experience intermittent heavy rains.
In addition to the rain, the PMD has raised concerns about flash floods and landslides. The heavy downpours may lead to flash flooding in smaller streams and urban flooding in low-lying areas of major cities. The department has specifically warned of the risks to roadways, especially in hilly terrains, where landslides and mudslides could disrupt travel.
The intense weather will also affect much of Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad, from August 18-21. Rain is expected to be heavy, particularly in the northern and eastern parts, while parts of Karachi, Hyderabad, and other cities in Sindh are likely to see showers during the same period.
The PMD has further advised the public to avoid travel in high-risk areas and stay informed about changing weather conditions. Authorities have been urged to remain on high alert, particularly in flood-prone regions, and take necessary precautions to minimize damage and ensure safety.
As of now, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported 312 deaths and over 740 injuries due to the ongoing monsoon rains and flash floods, with the majority of fatalities among children. The NDMA continues to monitor the situation as the wet season progresses.
