ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms across several parts of the country on Monday, with heavy downpours expected in parts of Sindh, southern Punjab and northeastern Balochistan, prompting authorities to maintain a high level of vigilance over the evolving flood situation.
According to the PMD, rain with wind and thunderstorms is likely in Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while isolated heavy falls may trigger flash flooding in vulnerable areas.
The weather department has warned of heavy rainfall in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas and adjoining districts of Sindh, where monsoon activity has already disrupted normal life in recent days.
Light rain or drizzle is also expected in Karachi, offering some relief from humid conditions.
In Punjab and northeastern Balochistan, heavy rain is forecast in Dera Ghazi Khan and adjoining areas, with authorities cautioning that intense rainfall could cause localised flooding in hill torrents, seasonal streams and rivers.
The latest forecast comes as several parts of the country continue to grapple with the impact of an active monsoon spell.
Floodwaters have inundated low-lying areas in parts of Punjab, while localized flooding has also been reported in Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan, where heavy rains have damaged infrastructure and disrupted road connectivity.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab, rainfall in the upper catchment areas has led to a gradual increase in river flows. Authorities are closely monitoring the Indus, Chenab, Ravi, Jhelum and Sutlej river systems, where water levels have fluctuated over recent days due to upstream rainfall and flood surges.
The PDMA said district administrations have been directed to remain on alert, continue surveillance of vulnerable riverine areas and ensure the availability of rescue teams and relief resources in case the situation deteriorates.
Drone surveillance has also been deployed at key barrages and headworks to improve real-time monitoring of river conditions and strengthen early warning capabilities.
The PMD has advised the public to exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in low-lying areas, near rivers, nullahs and hill torrents, where rapid rises in water levels are possible.
Motorists have also been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during intense downpours, while residents in flood-prone areas have been asked to remain updated through official weather advisories and follow instructions issued by local administrations and emergency services.
