ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of widespread monsoon rains across most parts of the country from July 29 to August 5, warning of urban flooding, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
According to the Met Office, strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal are expected to enter the upper and central parts of Pakistan from July 29. A westerly weather system currently affecting the northern areas is also likely to strengthen from August 1, increasing rainfall across many regions.
Heavy to very heavy rain is expected in Kashmir, Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, parts of Balochistan and Sindh during the forecast period, with occasional breaks.
The PMD warned that heavy rainfall could trigger urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Nowshera, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad between July 30 and August 4. Similar flooding is also expected in several districts of Sindh from July 31 to August 2.
The department also cautioned that landslides may occur in vulnerable areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat and Azad Jammu and Kashmir from July 30 to August 5.
Flash floods are also possible in local streams and hill torrents in Kashmir, Murree, Galliyat, northeastern Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Dera Ghazi Khan and northeastern Balochistan during the rainy spell.
The PMD further warned that heavy rain, strong winds and lightning could damage weak structures, including solar panels, electricity poles and billboards.
Tourists and travellers have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas during the forecast period. Farmers have also been urged to plan agricultural activities according to weather conditions and take necessary steps to protect their livestock.
The Met Office advised all relevant authorities to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures to minimize the risk of damage and ensure public safety during the upcoming monsoon spell.
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