ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast torrential rains accompanied by wind and thunderstorms across various regions of the country from July 15 (evening/night) to July 17.
The weather system is influenced by a low-pressure area (LPA) currently situated over northwest Madhya Pradesh, India, which is expected to affect Pakistan within the next 24 to 72 hours. Strong monsoon currents are anticipated in the central and upper parts of the country, in addition to a prevailing westerly wave over the upper regions.
Regional Forecasts
Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan:
Widespread rain, wind, and thunderstorms with scattered heavy to very heavy downpours are expected in Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, and surrounding districts from July 14 (night) to July 17. Gilgit-Baltistan will likely receive rainfall with isolated heavy falls during the same period.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP):
Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast in most districts, including Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Abbottabad, Peshawar, and Waziristan, between July 14 (night) and July 17, with intermittent dry periods.
Punjab and Islamabad:
Intense rain and thunderstorms are expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Multan, and several other cities across Punjab from July 14 (evening) through July 17. Scattered very heavy to extremely heavy downpours may occur.
Balochistan:
Northeastern and southern regions—such as Quetta, Zhob, Loralai, Khuzdar, and Lasbela—are expected to receive rain and thunderstorms, with occasional heavy falls from July 14 to 16.
Sindh:
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast in Tharparkar, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, and surrounding districts from July 14 to 16. Light rainfall is also expected in Karachi.
Possible Impacts & Advisories
- Flash Flood Risk:
Torrential rains may trigger flash floods in local streams and nullahs in areas such as Chitral, Swat, Murree, Rawalpindi, Kashmir, and parts of Balochistan and northeast Punjab. - Urban Flooding:
Heavy downpours may cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Peshawar. - Landslides & Mudslides:
Vulnerable hilly areas in KP, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan may experience road blockages due to landslides. - Infrastructure Damage:
Strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning could damage weak structures, billboards, power lines, vehicles, and solar panels. - Agricultural Impact:
Standing crops in Punjab, KP, and Kashmir may suffer damage due to excessive rainfall.
Public Advisory:
Travelers, tourists, and the general public are advised to avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas during the forecast period and stay updated on changing weather conditions. Caution is urged to prevent loss of life or property.
