The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread monsoon rainfall across much of the country during the first week of July, warning of possible urban flooding, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. According to the Met Office, most parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan and Sindh are expected to receive rain between July 1 and 6.
Weather Systems Driving the Rainfall
The PMD said a westerly weather system is likely to enter the country on the evening or night of June 30, while moist currents from the Arabian Sea will affect the eastern and central regions. Humid winds from the Bay of Bengal are also expected to reach the upper parts of the country from July 2, strengthening monsoon activity.
Regional Breakdown of Expected Rainfall
Under the influence of these weather systems, rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected across Punjab and AJK from July 1 to 6, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan from July 1 to 5, and the northern and northeastern districts of Balochistan from July 1 to 4. In Sindh, rainfall is forecast on July 3 and 4 in Sukkur, Jacobabad, Larkana and adjoining areas. However, no rainfall is currently expected in Karachi.
Warnings for Urban Flooding and Flash Floods
The Met Office warned that heavy downpours could trigger urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Nowshera and Faisalabad between July 1 and 4. It also cautioned that the risk of flash floods in streams and hill torrents, as well as landslides, would remain high in the mountainous areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat and AJK from July 2 to 6.
Public Safety Advisory
The PMD advised the public to avoid weak structures, electricity poles and billboards during heavy rain and strong winds, and urged travellers to exercise caution, particularly in hilly and flood-prone areas.
