The Meteorological Department has forecast the arrival of the monsoon season from the first week of July, warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning and the risk of flooding and landslides across multiple parts of the country.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has also issued a pre-monsoon alert, urging authorities and the public to take precautionary measures as widespread rain is expected across the province.
According to the Meteorological Department, monsoon rains are expected to begin during the first week of July. Punjab is likely to receive widespread rainfall from July 1 to 6, while various areas of Balochistan are expected to receive rain between July 1 and 4.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rainfall is forecast from July 1 to 5, while Sindh is likely to receive showers between July 3 and 4.
Strong winds, lightning could damage infrastructure
The Met Office warned that strong winds and lightning could damage public infrastructure during the spell.
It also cautioned that Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and other upper areas face the risk of landslides, while rivers and canals may experience flooding due to heavy rainfall.
The department advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.
Pre-monsoon alert for Punjab
Separately, the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a province-wide pre-monsoon alert ahead of the expected rainfall. According to the authority, rain is likely in most districts of Punjab from July 1 to 6, raising concerns about urban flooding in major cities.
PDMA warned of possible urban flooding in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lahore and Faisalabad during the upcoming monsoon spell. The authority said rainfall is expected in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum and Mandi Bahauddin.
Rain is also forecast in Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Khushab, Sargodha and Sheikhupura. From July 3 to 6, showers are also likely in Sahiwal, Narowal, Jhang, Pakpattan, Nankana Sahib, Okara, Kasur, Bhakkar, Layyah and Mianwali.
Authorities directed to stay on alert
PDMA Director General Umar Javed said alerts had been issued to commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to ensure preparedness for any emergency.
He urged the public to stay in safe places during lightning, dust storms and strong winds.
Umar Javed advised farmers to take all necessary precautionary measures in view of the changing weather conditions to protect crops and livestock.
He also urged tourists planning to travel to northern areas to remain cautious and follow weather advisories due to the risk of landslides and flash flooding.
The PDMA spokesperson advised the public to contact the authority's emergency helpline 1129 in case of any weather-related emergency.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert, follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel as Pakistan prepares for the arrival of the monsoon season.
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