Islamabad, June 25, 2025 — As the monsoon season tightens its grip on Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a red alert for urban flooding in Islamabad, cautioning residents and authorities to brace for severe weather disruptions between June 26 and July 1.
In its latest forecast, the PMD warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to lash Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and adjoining areas, triggering the risk of urban flooding in low-lying zones of the capital. The warning extends beyond Islamabad, covering other urban centers such as Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Peshawar.
According to the PMD, intense rainfall may generate flash floods in local streams and nullahs in Islamabad, Murree, Galliyat, Mansehra, Swat, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir. Vulnerable areas in the capital city may experience road blockages, waterlogging, and major traffic snarls due to clogged drainage systems.
The PMD’s alert emphasizes that Islamabad is particularly susceptible to urban flooding due to its rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and concrete-heavy development. The department has urged residents of the capital to avoid unnecessary travel during the forecast period and secure loose objects such as solar panels, billboards, and temporary structures, which may be damaged in strong winds and lightning storms.
A synoptic analysis reveals that moist currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are penetrating deeply into the country and are expected to intensify over the next 48 hours. Additionally, a westerly wave is affecting northern Pakistan, further increasing the risk of heavy rainfall.
On Wednesday and Thursday, more rain-wind/thundershowers are expected in Islamabad, Punjab, Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Sindh and Balochistan. The forecast warns of scattered heavyfalls, which could exacerbate urban flooding in key metropolitan areas, especially Islamabad.
In the past 24 hours, Islamabad has already witnessed significant rainfall, with Bokra receiving 68mm, Pirwadhai 53mm, and Saidpur 52mm. Such intense precipitation underscores the looming threat of urban flooding if the downpours persist or intensify.
Authorities in Islamabad have been advised to remain on high alert, activate emergency response units, and ensure that stormwater drains and flood channels remain clear. With monsoon fury fast approaching, the capital must prepare for nature’s onslaught to avoid disaster.