Heavy rain expected to hit Pakistan during next 24-48 hours

Islamabad: Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman on Sunday called upon the public and relevant authorities, including non-government organizations (NGOs), to remain alert as heavy rains accompanied by thundershowers could hit the parts of the country in the next 24-48 hours.

In a tweet from her official Twitter account, the climate minister highlighted that the highest amount of rainfall is anticipated in cities such as Lahore, Narowal, and Sialkot in Punjab. Other provinces have also been alerted for heavy to moderate rain. She emphasized the issuance of urban flooding alerts for cities and municipal areas, emphasizing the risk of landslides.

The estimated number of people that may be impacted by the rains in the next 48 hours in Pakistan according to @ndmapk #climatechange https://t.co/2cBz36XEmV pic.twitter.com/VIzfV2wGYc

— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) July 9, 2023

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported the potential for severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in north/northeastern Punjab, including Lahore, Sialkot, and Narowal. Additionally, high or very high river flows are expected in the Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej rivers, as well as associated Nullahs such as Bhimber, Aik, Deg, Palkhu, and Basanter.

#NEOC Projections(Next 48 hr):
1.Possibility of severe thunderstorms /hvy rainfall in North /Northeastern Punjab (incld Lahore, Sialkot & Narowal).w/a high-very high river flows in Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej & its associated Nullahs (Bhimber, Aik, Deg, Palkhu & Basanter) are expected. pic.twitter.com/n39R1h1nUM

— NDMA PAKISTAN (@ndmapk) July 8, 2023

The NDMA further cautioned that these conditions may lead to urban flooding in municipal areas and landsliding in hilly regions. In light of the forecast, the minister emphasized the importance of coordinated preparedness and proactive responses to save lives, urging all response teams, both public and NGOs in affected areas, to remain vigilant and ready.