By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Monsoon Currents Intensify from August 22
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert regarding a new spell of rainfall expected to begin from August 23 across Karachi and several other parts of the country. According to officials, monsoon currents will strengthen as they enter Pakistan from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, creating favorable conditions for widespread rain. The PMD has particularly warned about possible landslides in hilly regions and urban flooding in low-lying areas.
Rain Forecast for Punjab
Between August 23 and 27, several parts of Punjab are expected to receive heavy rainfall. The cities of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, and Sargodha have been listed among the most affected. Other districts including Khushab, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Multan may also experience downpours during this period.
From August 23 to 25, heavy rainfall is also forecast in Bhakkar, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, which raises concerns of localized flooding in rural and semi-urban areas.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Likely to See Intense Rainfall
The PMD has cautioned residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to prepare for heavy rainfall and hailstorms between August 23 and 26. Areas likely to be affected include Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Kohat, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and Bajaur. Northern regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir are also expected to experience significant rainfall, raising the risk of landslides and flash floods.
Balochistan and Sindh Under Rain Alert
The weather department has also predicted showers in parts of Balochistan including Quetta, Zhob, Sherani, Barkhan, Khuzdar, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Panjgur, and Kech. These areas are already prone to flooding due to poor drainage systems, and additional rainfall could further complicate the situation.
In Sindh, widespread rain is forecast for Karachi, Sukkur, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad, Dadu, Jacobabad, and Jamshoro from August 23 to 25. Karachi, in particular, is at risk of urban flooding due to its inadequate drainage system, with citizens being urged to stay alert during the downpour.
Flash Flooding Risks in Several Regions
The PMD has highlighted a serious threat of flash floods in vulnerable areas including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Dir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. These regions are considered sensitive due to their geography and history of flooding during heavy monsoon rains. Authorities have been directed to stay on high alert and ensure that emergency response teams are prepared.
Precautionary Measures for Citizens
Given the forecast, citizens across Pakistan have been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during the rain spell. People living in low-lying areas have been urged to take preventive measures to protect themselves from potential flooding. The PMD has also requested travelers heading to hilly regions to remain alert due to the possibility of landslides.
Local administrations are expected to enhance their preparedness by clearing drainage systems, keeping rescue teams on standby, and ensuring that vulnerable areas are monitored closely during the period of intense rainfall.