Punjab and other parts of the country experienced widespread monsoon rainfall over the past 24 hours, with authorities issuing warnings of potential flooding and landslides, especially in the northern regions.
According to data released by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the highest rainfall in Punjab was recorded in Khanewal at 51mm, followed by Sahiwal (44mm), Rawalpindi (42mm), and Murree (41mm). Lahore received 23mm of rain, while Okara and Mandi Bahauddin recorded 30mm and 27mm respectively.
The monsoon spell, which began earlier this month, is expected to persist till July 13. Director General of PDMA, Irfan Ali Kathia, warned of more heavy showers in the coming 24 hours, urging citizens to stay away from rivers, canals and streams.
“Section 144 has been imposed around vulnerable water bodies to prevent any untoward incidents,” said Mr Kathia. “People should avoid bathing in open water channels and must not reside in mud or dilapidated structures during this period.”
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed the continuation of monsoon activity, stating that strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy downpours are expected in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and Islamabad.
Islamabad recorded 36mm of rain, followed by 26mm in Lahore and 23mm in Sheikhupura. Rainfall was also observed in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Balakot (40mm), Malam Jabba (28mm), and Kakul (13mm), while Gilgit-Baltistan’s Bagrot region reported 7mm of rain.
The NDMA, in a separate alert, warned of potential flooding in northern rivers and streams including Hunza, Shegar, Khunjerab, Haspar, Baraldo, and Hoshe in Gilgit-Baltistan. Authorities have advised both tourists and locals to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel near riverbanks.
“Due to persistent rainfall and glacial melting, landslides are likely in Gilgit, Skardu, Astore, Diamer, Hunza, and Ganche, as well as several districts in Azad Kashmir including Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Rawalakot,” the NDMA stated.
The federal disaster management agency has directed all provincial bodies to remain on high alert and ensure timely evacuation and rescue readiness in case of emergencies.
In southern Punjab, the cloud cover and moisture from overnight showers are expected to benefit major summer crops. According to PMD, cotton and paddy crops in districts like Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rajanpur will likely benefit from the monsoon rains.
Temperatures remained high in some parts of the country despite the rains. The highest recorded temperature on Tuesday was 45°C in Nokkundi and Dalbandin, while Chilas and Turbat reached 42°C and 41°C respectively.
