New wave of monsoon rains across the country raises concerns of flooding and landslides

Lahore/Islamabad (Web Desk): A new spell of monsoon rains continues across various parts of the country, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding forecasted in several districts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. The Meteorological Department has warned that this weather pattern will persist from July 5 to July 8, with further thunderstorms expected.

According to the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), heavy rains are expected in multiple areas of the province between July 5 and 10. The PDMA spokesperson stated that districts including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Kasur, Okara, and Sahiwal are likely to experience heavy rainfall.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned that after July 7, river flows will increase significantly, potentially causing flash floods and flooding in low-lying areas, rainwater drains, and hill torrents. Urban flooding is also a concern in city areas.

Meanwhile, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, strong winds, thunderstorms, and rain are expected in districts such as Dir, Swat, Buner, Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Peshawar, Mardan, Karak, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan. The Meteorological Department has highlighted risks of landslides and flash flooding in hilly areas like Swat, Kohistan, and Shangla, with heavy rain possible at some locations.

In Balochistan, weather is expected to remain warm and humid in many areas, but rainfall with thunderstorms is forecast for Barkhan, Loralai, Zhob, Mastung, Sibi, Kalat, Khuzdar, and other districts.

Meteorological authorities and related agencies have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from riverbanks and nullahs, and immediately contact local rescue services in case of any emergency.