Punjab, KP, GB, AJK brace for more rain

Pakistan is bracing for a fresh spell of monsoon rains, wind, and thunderstorms across its upper and central regions over the weekend, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The forecast, valid from August 22 to August 23, warns of potential urban flooding, flash flooding, and landslides.

Monsoon currents are expected to bring downpours to major cities and divisions in Punjab, including Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Multan. Similar weather conditions are anticipated in the Hazara, Malakand, Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, and DI Khan divisions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Gilgit-Baltistan region and the Kashmir area, encompassing Muzaffarabad and Mirpur, will also be affected.

While Sindh and Balochistan are predicted to remain mostly hot and humid, isolated showers may occur in Kalat and Zhob divisions of Balochistan. The PMD specifically cautioned about the risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas of Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. Hilly terrains in Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, GB, and KP are prone to landslides, with a risk of flash flooding in storm drains.

Separately, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the seventh spell of monsoon rains. Official figures indicate that at least 54 people have died and 341 have been injured in rain-related incidents during the current monsoon season. River flows have increased, with the Indus River in moderate flood at Kalabagh. Tarbela Dam has reached its full capacity of 100 percent, while Mangla Dam is at 72 percent capacity.

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In the event of wind and storm, stay in safe places and avoid unnecessary travel.