ISLAMABAD (Web-Desk); Meteorologists have warned that due to the ongoing impact of climate change, the monsoon season in Pakistan may now extend until the end of September instead of ending by mid-September as in previous years.
So far, southern Pakistan has seen significantly less rainfall, with monsoon currents largely affecting the northern and upper parts of the country, including areas of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
However, weather experts expect a shift in wind patterns starting August 10, which may push the monsoon system towards the southern regions by mid-August.
Meanwhile, rain is expected in several districts of Punjab within the next 24 hours. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the sixth round of monsoon rains, forecasting heavy showers from August 5 across most of the province.
Authorities warn of possible medium to high-level flooding in the Chenab and Jhelum rivers beginning August 5, with rainfall levels for August expected to surpass those recorded in July.
Rain is predicted in Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Okara, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Bahawalpur, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, and Rajanpur.
According to PDMA officials, a low-level flood is currently present at the Khanki point in the Chenab River. Similar water levels have been recorded in the Indus River at Kalabagh, Chashma, and Taunsa. Tarbela Dam is at 89 percent of its capacity, while Mangla Dam is at 61 percent. Water levels in the Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers remain normal.
Relief Commissioner Punjab Nabeel Javed has instructed all commissioners and deputy commissioners to remain on high alert. The PDMA has also directed civil defence, rescue teams, and related departments to finalize all preemptive arrangements.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that, under the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, emergency alerts have been issued and control room staff should remain on standby.
Rescue 1122 teams have also been directed to stay on high alert. The public is urged to follow safety instructions, especially in Murree and Galliyat where there is a risk of landslides.
The PDMA has also warned of potential damage to mud houses and structurally weak buildings. Travelers and tourists are advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary journeys in affected areas.
In the event of urban or flash flooding, people are advised to stay in safe areas and not to attempt to cross flowing water. For emergencies, the PDMA helpline 1129 remains active.
