Heavy Rains Likely in August, Says Weather Department

Pakistan's Meteorological Department (PMD), backed by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), has forecast above-average rainfall during August 2025. With July already seeing a 25% increase in precipitation, the coming weeks could bring intensified monsoon spells across the country. Flood warnings have been issued for major rivers and urban centers, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, and Sargodha. The forecast includes urban flooding, riverine overflow, and landslide risk as PMD urges authorities and citizens alike to brace for renewed disruption.

• Above-Average Rainfall Expected: August is likely to deliver over 25% more rain than the long-term average. 

• Flood Alerts Issued: PDMA flags potential moderate flows in the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej Rivers by July 30–31.

• Urban Flood Risk: Cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Multan, and Dera Ghazi Khan are on high alert for flash floods.

• Intensifying Weather System: A westerly wave and monsoon currents are poised to reinforce rainfall from July 29 through early August.

• Glacial Flood Threat: Continuation of high-altitude rain and heat has prompted warnings of glacial lake outburst floods in KP and GB.

• Seasonal Outlook Reported: June PMD predictions already indicated heavier-than-normal monsoon activity, particularly in August.

• July rainfall exceeded expectations by 25% in most provinces; notably, Sindh recorded below-average rain. ([turn0search1]citeturn0search1turn0search0)

• PMD’s seasonal outlook in June had already forecast heavy monsoon precipitation, with August expected to be the peak month.

• Low-pressure systems moving westward may trigger torrential showers, posing threats to hill torrents, urban nullahs, and flood-prone localities.

• Heightened glacial activity in Gilgit‑Baltistan and mountainous KP is increasing flash flood potential. 

• Historically, August is Pakistan’s monsoon peak: Islamabad receives over 340 mm on average, with extremes that have seen 150 mm+ in a single day.

• August 2022 saw devastating rainfall in Sindh, with some areas receiving over 600% more precipitation than average.

• Punjab, Sindh, KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan PDMAs have activated emergency protocols and flood control monitoring.

• City commissioners in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Multan, Sargodha, Sahiwal, and Dera Ghazi Khan ordered to deploy of drainage teams and the preparation of relief centers.

• WASA and local authorities deployed pumps to prone areas in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, balancing drainage and sewage overflow.

• Denial of access to encroached nullahs and blocked drains to ensure free water flow.

• The Flood Forecasting Division is issuing real-time alerts on river basin levels, torrents, and potential overflow zones. 

• Deployment of mobile rescue teams and coordination with NDMA for wind‑thunderstorm weather impacts.

• Twin Cities Example: Islamabad — Saidpur (87 mm), New Katarian (75 mm), Gawalmandi (42 mm), triggering emergency response in Rawalpindi as a van was swept away in Hassan Abdal. Five people rescued; four remain missing.

• Tourist Areas at Risk: Murree, Galliat, and neighboring hill stations are bracing for landslide and lightning threats. Travel advisories issued.

For Residents & Travelers

• Avoid traveling through flooded nullahs or hill torrents at night—especially in Murree, Galliat, Swat, and Naran.

• Do not drive or walk through moving floodwaters; cooperate with local emergency teams.

• Stay informed via PMD, NDMA, or local commissioners’ alerts.

For Authorities & Administrators

• Maintain clear, visible signage in flood-prone zones and tourist routes.

• Ensure shelters, sandbags, and medical facilities are operational near high-risk zones.

• Keep international tourists informed of evacuation routes and contact details for local assistance.

With August likely to bring above-average rainfall, the risks of flash floods, urban inundation, tunnel overflow, and landslides are elevated across Pakistan. Authorities must ensure monitoring, preparedness, and clear public advisories to avert disaster.