The Meteorological Department has issued a monsoon rain forecast for the country, raising concerns about potential flooding and landslides in hilly regions.
As per the department, moist winds from the Arabian Sea are blowing towards the higher areas of the country. The arrival of a series of western winds in the upper regions, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Guliyat, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Central Punjab, is expected to bring heavy rainfall and hailstorms until July 8th. There is a risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Gujranwala, and Lahore, while landslides are also feared in hilly regions like Murree, Guliyat, Kashmir, Gilgit, Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Recent heavy rains have already triggered landslides in Murree, and there are predictions of torrential rainfall starting from today. Wind and thundershowers are anticipated in Murree, Galiat, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Attock, Chakwal, Sargodha, and Faisalabad during the evening or night. Bahawalnagar, Narowal, Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Lahore are also expected to experience rain accompanied by wind and thunder. Farmers have been advised to remain vigilant due to the anticipated rainfall.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also warned of heavy rains, storms, and the possibility of landslides in various areas. The risk of flooding in low-lying areas during the monsoon rains is a concern. The NDMA has instructed relevant institutions to ensure the availability of emergency machinery and staff. District administrations have taken measures to ensure the presence of emergency medical staff. Travelers and tourists are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions before undertaking any journeys.
Farmers and livestock owners are urged to take necessary precautions, while relevant institutions should provide advance notices to residents in flood-prone areas.