Severe Thunderstorms Expected Nationwide from Today Until August 6
Islamabad: The Director General of the Meteorological Department, Sahibzad Khan, announced that severe thunderstorms are expected across the country from today until August 6. The first phase of this weather pattern is anticipated to continue until August 6, with a second phase forecasted from August 7 to August 15.
In a weekly press briefing in Islamabad, Khan mentioned that the two-month monsoon season is not yet over. He noted that Lahore has experienced significant rainfall, with a record of 360 millimeters falling in just five to six hours at Lahore Airport—the highest in 44 years.
Khan explained that most areas of the country are expected to be affected by these rains. He added that July saw a 7% decrease in rainfall compared to average levels, with the highest rainfall recorded being 662 millimeters. There were five weather systems in July.
The DG of Meteorology assured that the country’s reservoirs still have sufficient capacity to handle the increased rainfall. The Tarbela Dam is 77.7% full, and the Mangla Dam is 60.3% full. While there is a potential risk of flooding in the Chenab River if the rains continue, relevant departments have been alerted to prepare for possible flood conditions.
Khan highlighted that the rains would be beneficial for the rice crop and urged the public to take precautionary measures during the heavy rainfall. He indicated that the rains in August are expected to be above average, with slightly more precipitation anticipated in northeastern Punjab and southern Sindh. The first phase of the rainfall is projected to end on August 6, followed by intermittent showers from August 7 to August 15 in the northern regions, eastern Balochistan, and southeastern Sindh.
Finally, Khan mentioned that daytime temperatures across most parts of the country are expected to remain normal.