Web Desk: Pakistan’s Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain and thunderstorms across several regions of the country over the next 24 hours, warning that heavy downpours could trigger flash floods, urban flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
The weather agency urged residents, travellers and local authorities to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories as unsettled weather is expected to affect much of northern and central Pakistan.
According to the PMD, rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in Islamabad, upper and central Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Some locations could experience heavy rainfall, strong winds and isolated intense thunderstorms, while intermittent showers are expected to continue in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab.
The department said the rainfall is expected to lower temperatures but may also lead to water accumulation in low-lying areas.
The PMD warned that heavy rain could generate flash floods in local streams and nullahs, particularly in mountainous regions, while landslides remain a concern in hilly areas.
It also cautioned that urban flooding may occur in some cities if rainfall intensifies over a short period.
Authorities advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and urged tourists planning trips to mountainous areas to monitor the latest forecasts before departing.
In southern Pakistan, Karachi is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light drizzle during the evening.
Earlier on Thursday, rainfall in Lahore brought cooler temperatures and strong breezes, providing relief from the recent heat. The PMD estimated a 20% to 80% probability of additional showers in the city at various times during the day.
The Meteorological Department also called on provincial administrations and emergency response agencies to remain prepared for weather-related incidents.
Earlier this week, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) directed relevant departments to maintain a high state of readiness after reviewing the country’s flood situation at a meeting of its Emergency Response Committee at the National Emergencies Operation Centre.
The NDMA said above-normal rainfall over the coming days could increase the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas and stressed the need for coordinated emergency preparedness.
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