Urban Flooding Alert as Punjab Braces for First Monsoon Spell

An urban flooding alert has been issued amid the forecast of the first spell of monsoon rain in Lahore and parts of Punjab during this week. Synoptic Situation According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a westerly wave is likely to enter the upper regions of the country by tonight. Moisture-laden currents from the Arabian Sea are continuously affecting eastern and central regions. Additional moisture from the Bay of Bengal is forecast to reach northern areas from July 2. PMD Forecast Under these weather conditions, the PMD has forecast monsoon rains accompanied by strong winds in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Khushab, Sargodha, Sheikhupura and Narowal from July 1 to July 6, with occasional breaks. Similarly, rains have also been predicted in Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Pakpattan, Nankana Sahib, Okara, Kasur, Noorpur Thal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Mianwali, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, and Lodhran from July 3 to 6. Impact According to the PDMA, there is a risk of urban flooding in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lahore and Faisalabad, while normal life may be affected due to strong winds and dust in some places. The PDMA has advised citizens to avoid going to open places during lightning and thunder and stay in safe places. It suggested avoiding unnecessary movement during dust and strong winds. Gusty winds and lightning could damage vulnerable infrastructure such as solar panels, electric poles, and billboards. It urged farmers to plan crop-related activities carefully while taking necessary measures to protect livestock. The ongoing hot and humid weather conditions across Punjab are expected to ease. Islamabad, Pakistan Weather: Significant monsoon rains expected