Rain forecast for several parts of Pakistan as flood risk rises
LAHORE: Rain is expected in several parts of Punjab, Balochistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir on Sunday, with authorities warning of possible flooding in urban centres and watercourses following increased rainfall.
According to the latest weather forecast, scattered showers are likely to affect different areas of the country, while parts of Punjab may experience intermittent rain during the day. The weather in Lahore turned pleasant on Sunday morning after rainfall was reported in various parts of the provincial capital.
The early-morning showers brought temporary relief from the prevailing heat and humidity, with residents experiencing relatively cooler conditions. Rain was reported in several localities, adding to the likelihood of water accumulation on roads and low-lying areas if the spell continues.
Meanwhile, the National Emergency Operation Center has warned that rainfall could lead to a rise in water levels and flows in major rivers across the country. The situation has prompted authorities to remain vigilant and closely monitor river channels, drains and vulnerable urban areas.
Officials have also highlighted the possibility of low to moderate-level urban flooding in several Punjab cities, including Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Okara and Lahore.
Heavy or persistent rainfall in these areas could result in water accumulating on roads, underpasses and other low-lying locations, potentially disrupting traffic and routine activities. Relevant departments have been advised to remain prepared to respond to any emergency arising from the weather system.
The risk is not limited to Punjab. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, low to moderate flooding has also been forecast in rivers, streams and rain-fed waterways in Chitral, Upper Dir, Abbottabad, Shangla, Khyber, Orakzai, Kohat, Tank and North and South Waziristan.
Authorities have urged local administrations and disaster-management agencies in vulnerable districts to maintain close coordination and monitor developments, particularly in areas located near rivers, streams and seasonal rain drains.
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been advised to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and stay informed about weather and flood alerts issued by the relevant authorities.
The latest warnings come as the country continues to monitor the impact of the ongoing monsoon activity, which can cause sudden increases in river flows and urban flooding in areas receiving intense or prolonged rainfall.
