- The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts hot and humid conditions across Punjab.
- Monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are penetrating the upper parts of Pakistan.
- The PMD forecasts monsoon rains from August 23 to August 27, with intervals.
As sweltering heat persists across most regions of Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a forecast projecting hot and humid conditions in Punjab, including the provincial capital Lahore, over the next 24 hours.
In its latest advisory, the Met Office has anticipated rain accompanied by wind and thundershowers in multiple areas, including Lahore, Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, and others. Additionally, the advisory has highlighted the possibility of heavy rainfall in isolated locations within the Potohar region and cities like Sialkot, Narowal, and Gujranwala, which could lead to localized flooding.
However, the air quality in Lahore, as indicated by a reading of 111, falls within the “Unhealthy” category. This signifies that pollution levels have risen significantly, posing risks to individuals with respiratory sensitivities. Experts are advising those experiencing symptoms like difficulty breathing or throat irritation to limit their outdoor exposure.
The synoptic situation is marked by monsoon currents originating from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, penetrating into the upper parts of the country. Simultaneously, a robust westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions. Meanwhile, weaker moist currents from the Bay of Bengal are influencing the central and upper areas of Pakistan.
Looking ahead, the PMD predicts that many parts of the country will receive further monsoon rains from August 23 to August 27, intermittently interrupted by gaps. The Met Office’s advisory indicates that during this period, moderate to heavy rainfall could potentially lead to urban flooding in low-lying zones of cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar.
In addition, there is a concern for landslides in areas prone to such events, including Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, and the hilly terrains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The forecast also outlines the anticipated regions for rain, wind-thundershowers, and moderate to heavy falls from August 23 to August 27. These areas include Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and others. The advisory emphasizes vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential weather-related disruptions during this period.