ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a nationwide alert for widespread rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds expected over the next 24 hours, warning of possible urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
According to the Met Office’s latest advisory, the weather system is being driven by weak monsoon currents entering from the Arabian Sea, which are expected to intensify.
In addition, a strong westerly wave is approaching the upper and central parts of the country, further contributing to the instability.
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast across Kashmir, Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northeast and southern Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The weather department has specifically warned of heavy downpours at isolated locations in northeast and southern Punjab, northern Balochistan, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“Heavy rain in hilly areas may trigger landslides and mudslides, particularly in Murree, Galiyat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” PMD said in a statement on Sunday. “Low-lying areas in major cities are also at risk of urban flooding.”
In the federal capital Islamabad and the adjoining Rawalpindi district, thundershowers with gusty winds are likely during the evening or night. Similar conditions have been forecast for Murree, Chakwal, Attock, and Gujranwala.
In northeastern Punjab, including Lahore, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Sargodha, heavy rainfall is anticipated, raising concerns about waterlogging and traffic disruptions.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain is expected in the upper regions, while hot and humid conditions will persist in the plains. Bannu recorded the highest temperature in the province at 40°C on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the weather department has reported partly cloudy and humid weather in Karachi, with a possibility of light rain or drizzle overnight.
As of Sunday afternoon, temperatures in the city stood at 30°C, though humidity made it feel closer to 35°C. Forecasts suggest temperatures will fluctuate between 28°C and 35°C in the next 24 hours.
The air quality in Karachi remains within acceptable limits. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), PM2.5 levels were recorded at 63, which is considered satisfactory and poses no significant health risks to the general population.
In Balochistan, areas including Barkhan, Zhob, Musakhel, and Sibi are likely to experience strong winds and scattered rain.
Isolated rainfall is also expected in Sindh, particularly in Sukkur, Shikarpur, Kashmore, and Larkana.
