Islamabad, August 5, 2024 – Pakistan is preparing for a significant monsoon event as powerful currents from the Arabian Sea move across the country, bringing with them the potential for heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued warnings for widespread and intense monsoon activity that could lead to flash flooding, urban flooding, and landslides in various regions.
In a statement released on Monday, the Pakistan Met reported that strong monsoon currents are currently penetrating central and southern parts of the country, with expectations to spread into the upper regions by tonight. This weather pattern is anticipated to cause substantial monsoon showers, beginning August 5 and continuing through August 6, 2024.
The Pakistan Met highlighted several areas at risk of torrential rains and potential flash floods. These include hilly regions such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Zhob, Barkhan, and other areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The report also notes concerns for flash flooding in local nullahs and streams across numerous districts including Jhal Magsi, Kohlu, Dera Bugti, and parts of Sindh and Punjab.
Urban centers are also expected to face challenges due to heavy downpours. Major cities such as Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur are at risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas. Additionally, the PMD warned of possible landslides in the hilly terrains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, which may lead to road closures and transportation disruptions.
The weather forecast for August 6, 2024, suggests continued rain, windstorms, and thundershowers across Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern regions of Punjab and Kashmir. The Pakistan Met anticipates heavy rainfall at isolated locations in northeast Balochistan, upper Sindh, and other regions.
In the previous 24 hours, varying levels of rainfall were recorded across the country. In Sindh, Karachi saw substantial rainfall with Nazimabad receiving 77 mm and Surjani Town 72 mm. Other notable rainfall figures include 32 mm in Kot Addu, 21 mm in Khuzdar, and 42 mm in Cherat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The highest temperatures recorded were 43°C in Chilas and 42°C in Nokkundi.
As Pakistan experiences these intense weather conditions, authorities and residents are advised to remain vigilant. The Pakistan Met warnings emphasize the need for preparedness to mitigate the effects of potential flooding and landslides. The public is encouraged to follow weather updates closely and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of heightened monsoon activity.
