Authorities warn of thunderstorms, floods and landslides as Karachi and Lahore continue to swell
Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday issued warnings of rain, thunderstorm and possible flash flooding in several parts of the country, while hot and humid conditions persist in major urban centers.
The PMD said rain is expected in Islamabad, parts of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan between June 11 and June 13. Hail showers may also occur in some areas.
The NDMA warned that thunderstorms and heavy rains could trigger flash floods in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, KP and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Mountain streams and seasonal waterways may experience an increase in water levels during the forecast period.
Read: Sindh storm death toll rises to 16: PDMA
According to the authority, risk areas include Chitral, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram and Mansehra in KP. Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh and Rawalakot in Azad Jammu and Kashmir may also be affected.
In GB, the NDMA warned of possible flooding in streams and waterways in Gupis-Yasin, Ghizer, Diamer, Tangir, Darel and Gilgit districts.
The authority advised residents living in low-lying areas and near waterways to take precautions. Tourists and travelers were advised to avoid unnecessary travel to mountainous areas during periods of heavy rainfall.
The NDMA also issued a landslide alert for GB and adjoining mountainous areas from June 12 to June 15. It said temporary road closures and travel disruptions could occur at various points along the Karakoram Highway and Jaglot-Skardu Road.
Meanwhile, Lahore is expected to remain warm despite the possibility of a change in weather in the coming hours. The PMD predicted a maximum temperature of 41 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 31 degrees Celsius for the city.
Winds are expected to gust around 13 kilometers per hour, while humidity is likely to remain at 51%, potentially maintaining humid conditions.
Karachi is also expected to remain under the influence of intense heat. The PMD predicted hot and humid weather with bright sunshine throughout the day.
The maximum temperature in the city is expected to be between 39-41 degrees°C. The lowest measured temperature was 30.3°Cwhile the current temperature was 32°C.
The PMD said humidity levels of 78% could make temperatures feel significantly higher, with the perceived temperature around 40°C. A southwesterly wind was blowing at 22 km/h.
Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and take precautions in light of the prevailing weather conditions.
