WEBDESK: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh weather alert, predicting the arrival of pre-monsoon rains in different parts of the country this week. These rains are expected to start on June 22 and will continue for several days, providing much needed relief from the ongoing heatwave.
Pre-Monsoon Rains to Begin in Sindh
According to the PMD, the pre-monsoon rains will initially hit parts of Sindh, including Tharparkar, Umerkot, Badin, Mirpur Khas, and Hyderabad, from Saturday evening. The rain system will gradually expand to cover areas in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Flood Warnings
Weather experts predict that this spell of pre-monsoon rains will be 25 per cent heavier than normal for this time of year. The authorities have issued warnings for flash floods, urban flooding, and landslides in vulnerable areas.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have been placed on high alert to manage any emergency situations.
Together with the pre-monsoon rains, gusty winds, thunderstorms, and dust storms occasionally may be anticipated by citizens. This weather swerve brought about by humid winds in the Arabian Sea and a westerly wave, might alleviate the ongoing heatwave in the region and reduce excessive temperatures in regions thus hit.
The PMD has advised the public to take necessary precautions during the premonsoon rains, particularly in flood-prone zones. Residents of Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, and other major cities should keep track of weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
These pre-monsoon rains are further regarded to be an indication to the onset of the monsoon which normally begins in early July. Onshore showers are expected to enhance air quality, aid in managing water shortage and provide relief to the agricultural fraternity.
Islamabad was experiencing hot and sunny weather, with temperatures reaching up to 91°F in some parts of the city. Citizens were advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, drink plenty of water, and avoid direct sunlight due to the intense heat.
