Commuters are passing through a road during heavy downpours of monsoon season, at Sharea Faisal road in Karachi on, July 9, 2024. — PPI
KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its comprehensive weather outlook for the upcoming monsoon season in 2025, signalling a diverse range of conditions across the country, from potential flooding in some regions to above-normal temperatures in others.
The PMD urged authorities to activate emergency operation centres and ensure the deployment of rescue and relief teams in anticipation of the season’s challenges.
According to the Met Office, normal or slightly above normal rainfall is anticipated for the central and southern parts of the country. However, a more significant downpour is expected in the northeastern areas of Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), where excessive rainfall is likely.
In contrast, northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan are predicted to experience normal or slightly below-normal rainfall.
“The first part of the monsoon is particularly expected to bring heavy rains,” the meteorology department said.
Furthermore, the PMD revealed that, from July to September, the average temperature across Pakistan is likely to be above normal. A notable increase in temperature is specifically expected in the regions of AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan, and KP.
This rise in temperature in KP and Gilgit-Baltistan may also accelerate the rate of snowmelt, potentially leading to increased water levels in rivers.
This has prompted the Met Office to issue stern warnings regarding potential flooding.
Heavy rains can cause flooding in major rivers, with plains and mountainous areas of Sindh, Punjab, AJK, and KP all susceptible to inundation.
Northern Punjab, AJK, and KP also face a particularly high risk of flooding as a result of expected increased snowmelt from higher temperatures in the northern regions further exacerbating the flood risk by potentially raising river levels.
Beyond rainfall and temperature, the Met Department also cautioned about the possibility of strong winds, dust storms, and hailstorms due to temperature changes.
Despite the challenges, the excessive rains are expected to positively impact the country’s water resources, ensuring abundant water availability for irrigation and energy sectors.
The rains will also be instrumental in restoring water reservoirs and replenishing underground water resources.
In light of the comprehensive forecast, the PMD has urged provincial and district levels to activate emergency operation centres to ensure the timely deployment of rescue and relief teams throughout the monsoon season.
Moreover, close contact with local administration for evacuation procedures and timely warnings is emphasised.
“Citizens in Karachi and other affected areas are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains for their safety,” the PMD said.
