The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts significant monsoon activity. Strong currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal will enter the upper regions from August 22nd. A concurrent westerly wave is also expected that night. This combination of systems will generate widespread rain, powerful winds, and thunderstorms across much of the country, with varying intensity and duration until August 27th.
Weather Forecast Summary: Pakistan (Aug 22-27)
| Region | Area(s) Affected | Forecast Period | Expected Weather | Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kashmir | Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, Mirpur | 23rd – 27th Aug (with gaps) | Widespread rain-wind/thundershower | Scattered heavy to very heavy falls |
| Gilgit-Baltistan | Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, Shigar | 23rd – 27th Aug (with gaps) | Rain-wind/thundershower | Isolated heavy falls |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohat, Peshawar, Bannu, DI Khan, etc. | 23rd – 26th Aug | Widespread rain-wind/thundershower | Scattered heavy to very heavy falls |
| Punjab/Islamabad | Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, etc. | 23rd – 27th Aug (with gaps) | Widespread rain-wind/thundershower | Scattered heavy to very heavy falls |
| South Punjab | D.G. Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, etc. | 24th & 27th Aug | Scattered rain-wind/thundershower | Isolated heavy falls |
| Sindh | Mithi, Tharparkar, Umer Kot, Mirpurkhas | 23rd (eve/night) – 26th Aug (with gaps) | Rain-wind/thundershower | – |
| Balochistan | Barkhan, Musakhel, Loralai, Sibbi, Zhob, Kalat, Khuzdar | 23rd (eve/night) – 26th Aug (with gaps) | Rain-wind/thundershower | – |
| Cause | Strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal, and a westerly wave. | Penetrating from 22nd Aug |
Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Forecast
Kashmir, including Neelum Valley and Muzaffarabad, anticipates widespread rain. Scattered heavy to very heavy falls are expected from the 23rd to the 27th, with occasional breaks. Gilgit-Baltistan regions like Diamir and Skardu will also experience rain-wind and thunderstorms. However, isolated heavy falls are predicted here during the same active period, potentially disrupting travel and daily life.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forecast
Widespread rain and thunderstorms are expected across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Areas from Dir, Chitral, and Swat to Peshawar, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan will be affected. The forecast period runs from August 23rd to the 26th. Scattered heavy, and at times very heavy, rainfall is likely. This intense weather activity increases the risks of urban flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Punjab and Islamabad Forecast
Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore are set for widespread rain. The event spans from August 23rd to the 27th, with occasional gaps. Scattered heavy to very heavy falls are expected in northern districts. Southern Punjab, including Multan and Bahawalpur, will see scattered rain on the 24th and 27th. Isolated heavy falls are possible, offering some relief from the heat.
Sindh and Balochistan Forecast
Sindh’s eastern areas, like Mithi and Mirpurkhas, will receive rain. The activity is expected from the evening of the 23rd until the 26th, with breaks. In Balochistan, Barkhan, Zhob, and Kalat will experience similar conditions during this window. While less intense than the north, this rain is crucial for these typically arid regions, aiding water reservoirs and agriculture.
Potential Impacts and Precautionary Measures
The heavy rainfall brings a high risk of urban and flash flooding. Landslides are likely in hilly areas like Murree, Galliyat, and KP. Citizens are advised to stay informed through weather updates. Avoid unnecessary travel, especially near rivers and nullahs. Ensure proper drainage around homes. Farmers should take necessary measures to protect their crops and livestock from potential water damage.
Conclusion and Advisory
This widespread weather system promises to replenish water sources but also poses significant hazards. Remaining vigilant and following official advisories from local disaster management authorities is paramount. Taking proactive precautions can mitigate risks to life and property. The public is urged to exercise extreme caution throughout this active monsoon period ending on August 27th.
