New Monsoon Spell Looms
A fresh wave of heavy rainfall is set to sweep across Pakistan’s northern and central regions from August 29 to September 2, 2025, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The forecast, driven by monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal combined with a westerly wave, raises concerns about flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding in multiple provinces.
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This year’s monsoon has already been devastating, with over 800 deaths reported since June due to floods and landslides. The incoming weather system could worsen conditions in areas still grappling with earlier damages.
Regions at Risk
The PMD has outlined specific areas expected to face heavy rainfall and associated hazards:
- Kashmir: Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, and Mirpur are likely to see heavy to very heavy rain from August 29 to September 2.
- Gilgit-Baltistan: Diamir, Hunza, Skardu, and Astore may experience showers with isolated heavy spells on August 30–31.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Swat, Chitral, Peshawar, and Mansehra are forecast to face thunderstorms and heavy rain.
- Punjab and Islamabad: Cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Faisalabad, along with southern areas like Multan and Bahawalpur, are at risk of heavy downpours.
- Sindh and Balochistan: Tharparkar, Sukkur, and Jacobabad in Sindh, and Zhob and Khuzdar in Balochistan, may see rain and thunder on August 30–31.
Dangers and Precautions
The PMD has highlighted several risks:
- Flash Floods: Streams in Kashmir, Murree, Rawalpindi, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could overflow, endangering nearby communities.
- Urban Flooding: Low-lying areas in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Peshawar face significant waterlogging risks.
- Landslides: Hilly regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Murree may see road blockages due to mudslides.
- Structural Damage: Strong winds and lightning could harm weak infrastructure, including mud houses and power lines.
Local governments have mobilized emergency teams, and residents are urged to avoid travel to hilly areas and stay updated on weather alerts.
Context of the Crisis
Pakistan’s 2025 monsoon season has already caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, crops, and infrastructure. The new forecast adds urgency to ongoing relief efforts, with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) coordinating with provincial authorities to prepare for potential evacuations and aid distribution.
Official Response and Outlook
The NDMA is prioritizing public safety, with a spokesperson stating, “We are working round-the-clock to minimize risks and ensure timely support for affected communities.” The heavy rainfall is expected to ease by September 3, but caution remains essential.
For real-time updates, check the PMD’s official website or follow their X account.
Also Read: Punjab Faces More Rain and Floods Starting August 29 – New Alert Issued
