The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across the country in the coming days, warning of urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Monsoon currents are currently affecting Sindh and the northern regions, and are expected to strengthen in the upper and central parts of the country from July 20.
A fresh western system will also reach northern areas by July 21, leading to heavy showers and severe weather through July 26, though there may be breaks in between.
Rain Forecast by Region:
Sindh (July 18 to 20):
Areas like Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Karachi, Khairpur, Dadu, Jacobabad, Sukkur, and others can expect thunderstorms and isolated heavy downpours.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (July 21 to 25):
Rain with wind and thunder is likely in Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Waziristan, Bannu, and surrounding areas. Major cities including Peshawar, Mardan, Abbottabad, and Mansehra are also expected to receive significant rain.
Punjab and Islamabad (July 18 to 25):
Heavy rainfall is forecast in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and other central and northern areas. Southern Punjab, including Multan, Bahawalpur, and D.G. Khan, will receive rain mainly between July 18 night and July 23.
Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan:
Rain with heavy spells is predicted in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, and others from July 20 to 25. Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, and nearby areas will receive rainfall from July 21 to 26.
Balochistan (July 18 to 25):
Northeastern and southern districts like Lasbela, Khuzdar, Quetta, Zhob, and Kalat are expected to experience off-and-on thunderstorms.
Warnings and Precautions:
There is a high chance of flash floods in northern KP, Murree, Pothohar, and parts of Punjab and Kashmir.
Urban flooding may occur in low-lying parts of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and other major cities between July 21 and 25.
Landslides could disrupt road access in hilly regions such as Murree, GB, and KP. Strong winds and heavy rain might damage weak structures, rooftops, poles, and solar panels.
Citizens, especially travelers and tourists, are strongly advised to stay alert, avoid unnecessary trips to risky areas, and follow weather updates from official sources.