Pakistan Meteorological Department Forecasts Widespread Monsoon Rains and Thunderstorms

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory predicting widespread rain and thunderstorms across the country from July 24 to July 28. This forecast is driven by an active monsoon system and a low-pressure area over Rajasthan, India, which is drawing monsoon currents into southern and central Pakistan. Significant rainfall is expected in Sindh, southern and central Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northeastern Balochistan. Specific districts in Sindh, such as Tharparkar and Hyderabad, are anticipated to receive "rain-thundershowers with a few heavy falls," while Karachi may experience light rain. Balochistan's northern and northeastern areas, including Zhob and Khuzdar, are also forecast to have rain and thundershowers, with isolated heavy falls possible. Punjab is expected to see "rain-windstorms" and thundershowers, particularly in cities like Lahore and Multan. Islamabad and Rawalpindi, along with various districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, will also experience similar weather conditions. Azad Kashmir is predicted to have isolated rain-windstorms and thundershowers from July 24 to 28. The PMD has warned of potential urban flooding in several cities, including Gujranwala, Lahore, and Bahawalpur, between July 24 and 26, and cautioned that windstorms and lightning could damage weak structures. Authorities have been urged to remain vigilant, and relevant departments in Sindh have been placed on high alert, with rescue services and emergency response teams ready. This advisory comes as the country has already suffered significant losses from the ongoing monsoon, with at least 37 deaths reported in rain-related incidents, including flash floods and landslides in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab. Lahore has recorded its heaviest rainfall this monsoon season, causing widespread flooding.