New spell of monsoon rains forecast across upper parts of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department on Saturday forecast a new spell of monsoon rain in several parts of the country, with Islamabad, Rawalpindi and parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expected to receive showers from today.

According to the Met Department, a new westerly weather system is expected to affect the upper parts of the country from Aug. 31 and remain in place until Sept. 5.

Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Lahore and Sialkot, along with other areas of upper Punjab, are expected to receive rain from Aug. 29 to Sept. 5.

Rain is also forecast in parts of central and southern Punjab from Sept. 1 to Sept. 5.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, most districts, including Peshawar, Swat, Dir and Chitral, are expected to receive rain between Aug. 29 and Sept. 5.

The Met Department said most areas of Sindh and Balochistan are likely to experience hot and humid weather during the period.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, rain is expected in Diamer, Astore, Skardu and Hunza from Aug. 30 to Sept. 6.

Various areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur, are also expected to receive intermittent heavy rain through Sept. 6.

The Met Department warned that persistent rainfall could trigger urban flooding in major cities, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala and Mardan.

It also warned of possible flooding in streams and nullahs, flash floods and landslides in hilly areas.

In view of the risks of urban flooding and landslides, the Met Department advised travellers and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and remain informed about weather conditions.

Separately, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority has directed the district administrations and relevant departments in Mardan and Swabi to take precautionary measures and remain alert from Aug. 31 to Sept. 5 due to the risk of urban flooding.