Heavy Rains Forecast in Punjab as Monsoon Intensifies

News Desk

Karachi/Lahore: Amid changing climate patterns driven by global warming, meteorologists expect Pakistan’s monsoon season to continue until the end of September this year beyond its typical mid-September conclusion.

Experts say that so far, southern Pakistan has experienced below-average rainfall, with the monsoon system largely impacting northern and upper parts of the country, including areas of Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

However, a shift in wind patterns is expected around August 10, which could bring monsoon rains to the southern region from mid-August.

Meanwhile, significant rainfall is forecast across most districts of Punjab in the next 24 hours, prompting the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to issue an alert ahead of the sixth monsoon spell.

Heavy monsoon rains are predicted in most areas of Punjab starting August 5, with rainfall levels likely to exceed those recorded last month.

PDMA officials have warned of potential medium to high-level flooding in the Chenab and Jhelum rivers during this period.

A detailed weather advisory has been sent to all commissioners and deputy commissioners, instructing them to stay on high alert. Districts likely to be affected by the upcoming spell include Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Okara, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Bahawalpur, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, and Rajanpur.

As of now, a low-level flood has already been recorded at Khanki in the Chenab River, while similar conditions persist in the Indus River at Kalabagh, Chashma, and Taunsa. Tarbela Dam is currently at 89% of its capacity, while Mangla Dam stands at 61%. Water flows in the Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers remain within normal ranges.

Relief Commissioner Punjab, Nabeel Javed, has directed district administrations to remain vigilant. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said all relevant departments have been alerted on the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Emergency control rooms and Rescue 1122 disaster response teams have been placed on high alert.

Authorities have also warned of potential landslides in hilly areas such as Murree and Galliyat, and the risk of damage to mud houses and poorly maintained structures across the province. Travellers and tourists have been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain.

Residents are urged to stay away from flowing water in case of flash floods and seek shelter in safe locations. For assistance during emergencies, citizens can contact PDMA’s helpline at 1129.