The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms across much of the country. Strong monsoon currents are expected to intensify over the weekend, while a western disturbance will arrive on Monday. The weather system may trigger urban flooding, landslides, and travel disruptions in several regions.
According to the PMD, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will receive heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 18 to 25. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, and most parts of Punjab are expected to experience widespread rain between July 19 and 23. Southern Punjab will also receive heavy showers from July 20 to 24, while northern and northeastern Balochistan may witness isolated heavy rainfall.
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Meanwhile, Sindh is likely to remain hot and humid despite isolated rain and thunderstorms in Tharparkar, Mithi, Sukkur, Larkana, and Dadu from July 20 to 24. Karachi is expected to receive light rain and drizzle during the weekend with partly cloudy skies. The minimum temperature in the city is forecast to fall to around 28 degrees Celsius.
The PMD warned that strong winds and lightning could damage weak infrastructure, including solar panels, electricity poles, and billboards. Heavy rainfall may also trigger landslides in upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat, and Kashmir. Urban flooding is likely in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Peshawar, and Multan.
Read more: PMD forecasts widespread weekend rains
The Met Office advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel during the wet spell and urged farmers to plan agricultural activities carefully. Authorities have also been asked to remain on high alert to deal with possible flooding and weather-related emergencies. The department said the current hot and humid conditions are expected to ease during the forecast period.