ISLAMABAD/KARACHI/QUETTA: Pakistan is bracing for the fourth monsoon spell, set to begin tomorrow, bringing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flooding to multiple regions, including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Sindh, and Balochistan. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued alerts for urban flooding in major cities, while the Indus River is already experiencing high flood levels at key points.
Punjab on High Alert as River Indus Swells
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a red alert for several districts, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Multan, forecasting intense rainfall from July 20-25. Flood-like conditions have already emerged at Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma, with thousands of acres of crops submerged and 223 people evacuated so far.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Khattak warned that Jinnah Barrage is experiencing high water inflow (296,629 cusecs), increasing flood risks. 123 rain-related deaths have been reported in Punjab this season, mostly due to lightning strikes, electrocution, and collapsing buildings.
KP, Sindh, and Balochistan at Risk
-
KP: Heavy rain expected in Chitral, Swat, Abbottabad, and Mansehra, with landslide threats in hilly areas.
-
Sindh: Karachi may see light showers today, but more rain is forecast in the coming days.
-
Balochistan: Severe heat (up to 46°C in Nokundi) combined with rain could trigger flash floods in Zhob, Sibi, and Dera Bugti.
Public Urged to Take Precautions
Authorities have advised citizens to:
✔ Avoid rivers, streams, and unstable structures.
✔ Stay away from electric poles and open wires.
✔ Contact Rescue 1122 in emergencies.
With more rain expected, disaster management teams remain on high alert to mitigate risks and assist affected communities.