According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the monsoon is expected to arrive in the beginning of July this year. The weather report suggests that most areas may experience normal to slightly below-normal rainfall during the monsoon season.
While northern regions of the country may receive slightly above-normal rainfall, the western parts of Balochistan can expect near-normal rainfall. The monsoon wet spell is anticipated to continue from July to September.
The PMD has also highlighted the possibility of occasional extreme rainfall events over catchment areas, which may lead to riverine floods in the Indus and other rivers. Urban flooding, hill torrents, and flash floods may occur due to isolated heavy downpours.
In addition, soaring temperatures in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir could accelerate snowmelt, resulting in increased water flow into rivers.
The South Asian monsoon, also known as the Southwest or Asian Summer Monsoon, is a crucial weather phenomenon for the region. It brings 70-80 percent of South Asia’s annual rainfall between June and September, supporting agriculture and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. However, it also brings destruction in the form of landslides and floods. Melting glaciers and unregulated construction in flood-prone areas further contribute to the damage caused by the monsoon.
As the monsoon season approaches, it is essential for authorities and communities to take necessary precautions and measures to minimize the impact of potential floods and ensure the safety and well-being of the population.