Rain, flash flood alerts issued as heat persists across parts of Pakistan

Authorities warn of thunderstorms, flash floods and landslides as Karachi and Lahore continue to swelter

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Rain, flash flood alerts issued as heat persists across parts of Pakistan

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The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday issued warnings of rain, thunderstorms and possible flash flooding in several parts of the country, while hot and humid conditions persist in major urban centres.

The PMD said rain is expected in Islamabad, parts of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan between June 11 and June 13. Hailstorms may also occur in some areas.

The NDMA warned that thunderstorms and heavy rain could trigger flash floods in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, K-P and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Mountain streams and seasonal waterways may experience a surge in water levels during the forecast period.

Read: Sindh storm death toll climbs to 16: PDMA

According to the authority, areas at risk include Chitral, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram and Mansehra in K-P. Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh and Rawalakot in Azad Jammu and Kashmir could also be affected.

In G-B, 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 precautionary measures. Tourists and travellers were urged to avoid unnecessary travel to mountainous regions during periods of heavy rainfall.

The NDMA also issued a landslide alert for G-B 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 the Jaglot-Skardu Road.

Meanwhile, Lahore is expected to remain hot despite the possibility of a change in weather during the coming hours. The PMD forecast a maximum temperature of 41 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 31 degrees Celsius for the city.

Winds are expected to blow at around 13 kilometres per hour, while humidity is likely to remain at 51%, potentially maintaining muggy conditions.

Karachi is also expected to remain under the influence of intense heat. The PMD forecasted hot and humid weather with bright sunshine throughout the day.

The maximum temperature in the city is expected to range between 39-41°C. The minimum temperature recorded was 30.3°C, while the current temperature stood at 32°C.

The PMD said humidity levels of 78% could make temperatures feel significantly higher, with the perceived temperature reaching around 40°C. Southwesterly winds were blowing at 22km/h.

Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and take precautionary measures in view of the prevailing weather conditions.