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The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high-alert warning as the province prepares for a significant increase in monsoon rainfall this year. According to the PDMA’s weather advisory, the monsoon season in Punjab is set to begin on July 1, with the province expected to experience a 35% increase in rainfall above normal levels. The PDMA has forecast a range of rainfall patterns across different regions of Punjab during the upcoming monsoon season.
In the first week of July, heavy rain spells of 15mm to 55mm are anticipated in the divisions of Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sargodha, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, while the intensity and duration of rains are expected to be comparatively lower in Multan, DG Khan, and Bahawalpur divisions. During the second week, monsoon activity will persist in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Lahore, and Faisalabad divisions, with 25-35mm of rain predicted. Isolated rains are also expected in Multan, DG Khan, and Bahawalpur divisions.
In the third week, rain spells will remain significant in Upper Punjab, while a noticeable decrease in downpours is expected in Central and South Punjab as the monsoon enters a weak phase. These areas are expected to receive 15-25 mm of rain. The fourth week of July is predicted to bring the highest rainfall, with Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sargodha, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad divisions likely to face flooding due to heavy rains of 50-70mm. Hill torrents are also expected in DG Khan Division, and “moderate to heavy rains” are forecast for the Sahiwal, Multan, and Bahawalpur divisions.
The PDMA has warned that the increased rainfall poses a risk of urban flooding and hill torrents, particularly in South Punjab. In response, all relevant departments have been put on high alert, and the provincial administration has directed the completion of drainage system cleaning and maintenance of water channels as soon as possible.