Widespread rain forecast across Pakistan, flood and landslide warnings issued

The Pakistan Meteorological Department Tuesday issued a widespread rain and thunderstorm alert for Wednesday, warning of heavy downpours, flash flooding, and landslides across multiple regions of the country, including major cities and mountainous areas.

In the federal capital, Islamabad and its surroundings are expected to experience cloudy weather accompanied by rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms, with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated spots. The situation is mirrored across northern and central Punjab, where cities such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan are likely to receive significant rainfall. Low-lying areas in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Nowshera, and Peshawar are at high risk of urban flooding, authorities warned.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is expected to be hit hard, with forecasted downpours across Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, and other districts. Several of these areas, especially in the upper and central regions, may experience flash flooding in local rivers and streams between July 8 and 10, and landslides could disrupt transportation in hilly zones like Murree, Galiyat, and Kashmir.

In Balochistan, while most districts will remain hot and humid, scattered thundershowers are likely in Barkhan, Kohlu, Musakhel, Dera Bugti, Loralai, and Zhob. These areas, along with parts of southern Balochistan including Khuzdar, Kalat, and Lasbela, also face flood risks due to intense localised rain.

Sindh, including Karachi and other coastal areas, will see humid and hot conditions, though light rain is possible in some coastal zones. However, no major rain events are expected inland.

In Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, partly cloudy weather is predicted, with isolated thunderstorms in some regions. These areas are also on alert for landslides, which could hinder traffic and pose risks in mountainous zones.

The highest temperature recorded on Tuesday was a scorching 45°C in Naukundi and Dalbandin, followed by 42°C in Chilas and 41°C in Turbat, Bahawalnagar, and Noorpur Thal.

The public is advised to remain cautious, especially those living in flood-prone or hilly areas, as the rainfall may trigger flash floods, landslides, and significant disruptions to travel and daily life. The authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, stay updated with weather bulletins, and take preventive measures to ensure safety during the upcoming days of intense weather.

Reporter: Rozina Ali