ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Tuesday issued a nationwide weather advisory, warning that a fresh spell of monsoon rains from July 29 to August 5 could trigger urban flooding, flash floods and landslides across large parts of the country.
As per the PMD, monsoon currents are expected to enter the upper and central parts of the country on Wednesday, triggering rain and thunderstorms in many areas.
Authorities have warned that heavy rainfall could cause landslides in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, while swollen rivers and hill torrents may inundate low-lying areas.
Rain accompanied by thunderstorms is expected in Gilgit-Baltistan from Tuesday evening, while southern Punjab is forecast to receive rainfall from July 31 to August 3.
The rainy weather is also expected in Sindh between July 31 and August 2, and in Balochistan from July 31 to August 3.
The PMD has advised the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and all relevant departments to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures in view of the expected severe weather.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a province-wide alert for the fourth spell of monsoon rains, forecasting widespread showers across most districts from July 29 to August 5.
Heavy rainfall is expected in Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Chiniot, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Okara and several other districts.
Southern Punjab is also likely to receive rain between July 31 and August 3.
The PDMA has also forecast heavy rainfall in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal and surrounding districts.
The authority warned of urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Multan, while landslides are possible in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas.
It also warned that heavy rains could increase the river flow and seasonal streams, raising the risk of flash flooding.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia instructed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain on high alert and take measures to deal with any emergency situation.
Residents have been advised to avoid staying in dilapidated or mud-built houses during heavy rain, remain indoors during thunderstorms and lightning, and keep children away from floodwaters, low-lying areas and electrical installations.
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