PMD warns of flash floods as heavy rains lash Punjab and KP

Thudershower

Islamabad, August 14, 2025 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh alert warning of flash floods in several parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over the next 24 hours, as monsoon activity intensifies across the upper regions of the country.

According to the advisory, heavy and prolonged downpours are likely to trigger flash floods in local nullahs and streams of Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, the Pothohar region, and north-eastern Punjab. The PMD cautioned that vulnerable hilly areas in KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat, and Kashmir may also face landslides and mudslides, potentially leading to road closures and disruption of travel.

The department further warned that strong winds, lightning, and heavy rainfall could damage weak structures such as Kacha houses, billboards, electric poles, vehicles, and solar panels. Residents, travellers, and tourists have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary exposure in vulnerable locations, and stay informed through the latest weather updates.

Synoptic Situation

Meteorologists report that a seasonal low-pressure system currently lies over north Balochistan, while moist currents from the Arabian Sea are penetrating the upper parts of the country. Additionally, a westerly wave is expected to affect these regions from today, enhancing the risk of flash floods.

Thursday Forecast

Partly cloudy conditions with rain-wind/thundershowers are expected in upper Punjab, Islamabad, upper KP, north-eastern Balochistan, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Isolated heavy falls — with a heightened risk of flash floods — are anticipated in upper KP, north-east Punjab, Kashmir, and nearby hilly terrain. Hot and very humid weather will persist in most other regions.

Friday Outlook

Most plain areas of the country, including central and southern Punjab, will experience hot and humid conditions. However, upper Punjab, Islamabad, KP, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan may see isolated rain-wind/thundershowers with occasional heavy falls, again posing the risk of localized floods.

Past 24 Hours

During the last day, hot and humid weather dominated much of the country, but scattered showers occurred in upper KP, Kashmir, Islamabad, and north-east Punjab. Notable rainfall included Kakul (72mm), Rawalakot (67mm), and Murree (29mm). Lahore received moderate showers, with the Airport area recording 14mm. Other parts of Punjab such as Narowal and Sialkot also saw significant rainfall.

The PMD has stressed that continuous monitoring is underway, and timely alerts will be issued to mitigate the impact of floods in at-risk areas of Punjab and beyond.