ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast an extended spell of rain, wind and thundershowers across the upper and central parts of the country from August 17 to 21, with intermittent breaks expected during the period.
According to the Met Office, monsoon currents are currently penetrating the northern regions of Pakistan and are likely to persist over the coming days. In addition, a westerly wave is expected to enter the upper parts of the country from August 17.
The interaction of these two weather systems is expected to produce widespread rainfall across several regions.
Rain Forecast for Kashmir and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa
In Kashmir, scattered rain accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers is expected from the evening of August 16 through August 21. Isolated heavy rainfall is also possible in areas including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is also likely to experience widespread rain and thundershowers between August 17 and 21. The forecast covers Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Nowshera, Charsadda, Swabi, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Kohat, Hangu, Kurram, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar and Mardan.
The southern districts of the province, including Karak, Tank, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu and Waziristan, are expected to receive rainfall mainly on August 20 and 21.
Punjab and Islamabad to Receive Rain
Islamabad and several parts of upper Punjab are also expected to experience rain, wind and thundershowers, with isolated heavy falls possible.
The affected areas include Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal.
Rainfall in these areas is expected from the evening of August 16 and may continue until August 21.
Meanwhile, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan are likely to receive rain on August 20 and 21.
PMD forecasts more rain and thunderstorms in Karachi today
Gilgit-Baltistan May Also See Rain
In Gilgit-Baltistan, rain, winds and thundershowers are expected from August 18 to 21 in Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche and Shigar.
The Met Office has warned that rainfall in mountainous areas could create additional difficulties for travellers, particularly on roads and routes vulnerable to landslides.
Hot and Humid Weather in Sindh, Balochistan
Most parts of Sindh and Balochistan are expected to remain hot and humid during the forecast period.
However, rain, wind and thundershowers are likely in parts of Balochistan, particularly Musakhel, Barkhan, Zhob, Kalat and Khuzdar, from the evening of August 17 through August 20.
Therefore, while the monsoon system is expected to affect large parts of northern and central Pakistan, weather conditions will vary considerably across the country.
Risk of Urban Flooding and Landslides
The PMD has specifically warned that heavy rainfall could cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Mardan, Swabi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore between August 17 and 20.
There is also a risk of landslides in hilly and mountainous areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat and Kashmir throughout the forecast period.
Authorities have consequently been advised to remain alert and take precautionary measures to minimise the risk of disruption and damage.
Advisory for Tourists and Farmers
The Met Office has urged tourists and travellers heading towards mountainous and rain-affected regions to exercise caution and keep themselves updated about weather conditions before travelling.
Farmers have also been advised to plan agricultural activities according to the forecast and take appropriate measures to protect livestock.
With monsoon currents expected to remain active and a westerly wave approaching the country, residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain vigilant, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
