Summary PMD forecasts above-normal temperatures, flood risks, glacier hazards and possible water shortages across Pakistan during the July-September period.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued its seasonal forecast for July to September, warning that most parts of the country are likely to experience above-normal temperatures during the period.
According to the PMD outlook, Balochistan, Punjab and southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to face higher-than-normal temperatures, while northern areas including Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may receive normal or slightly above-normal rainfall.
The department warned that increased rainfall in mountainous regions could raise the risk of flash floods and landslides, while river flows and water levels in reservoirs may also increase.
The report stated that heavy rainfall in major cities of Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could lead to urban flooding.
The PMD further cautioned that rising temperatures in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir could accelerate glacier melting, increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods.
The forecast noted that below-normal rainfall in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan may cause water shortages for Kharif crops and increase irrigation requirements.
The department also warned that changing weather patterns could bring strong winds, dust storms, thunderstorms and hailstorms, potentially damaging crops and orchards, while periodic heatwave conditions may also occur.
According to the PMD, southern Punjab and the plains of Sindh may experience increased heat stress, while warmer conditions could raise the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue.
The meteorological department advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during extreme heat, especially between 11am and 4pm, drink more water and wear light clothing.
Farmers were advised to adopt precautionary measures to protect standing crops, while tourists were urged to exercise caution during travel amid heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
