Fresh Monsoon Spell Expected Across Pakistan as Authorities Warn of Flood Risks
LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast a new spell of monsoon rainfall across much of the country from July 30 to August 5, prompting authorities to issue advisories for possible flash floods, urban flooding, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Officials are closely monitoring river levels as additional rainfall in northern catchment areas could increase water flows in several major rivers during the coming days.
Heavy Rain Forecast for Multiple Regions
According to the PMD, monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal are expected to strengthen, bringing widespread rainfall to many parts of Pakistan.
The weather system may affect Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Balochistan, and Sindh, with some areas likely to receive heavy rainfall.
Flood and Urban Flooding Alerts
The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) has warned that increased rainfall in upper catchment areas could raise water levels in the Indus, Ravi, Chenab, Sutlej, and other rivers.
The department also cautioned that heavy rainfall may trigger:
- Flash floods in hilly and mountainous regions
- Urban flooding in low-lying cities
- Rising water levels in seasonal streams and hill torrents
Residents living near rivers, streams, and flood-prone areas have been advised to remain alert and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
River Levels Being Closely Monitored
Water authorities reported that the Indus River is expected to experience a medium-level flood at Guddu Barrage, while low-level flooding may continue at several other barrages.
Officials said river conditions are being monitored continuously, as additional rainfall could increase water flow over the coming days.
Rescue and Relief Operations Continue
Rescue teams remain engaged in relief activities in flood-affected areas, particularly in parts of Punjab, where several villages have experienced water accumulation following recent heavy rains.
Authorities are assisting affected families through evacuation efforts, distribution of relief supplies, and drainage operations where possible.
Prime Minister Reviews Preparedness
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting to review the country’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon spell.
During the meeting, officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial administrations briefed the prime minister on current conditions and ongoing response efforts.
The prime minister directed federal and provincial authorities to maintain close coordination, strengthen emergency preparedness, and ensure timely assistance for affected communities.
Public Advisory
Weather officials have advised citizens to stay informed through official forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall, and exercise extra caution in areas vulnerable to flooding or landslides.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and river flows as the new monsoon system moves across the country.
