The Director General of the Meteorological Department, Mehr Sahibzad Khan, gave an update on the current monsoon scenario, stating that this year’s monsoon rains are anticipated to surpass the usual levels.
Khan emphasised that Pakistan has already experienced a precipitation increase of 8% compared to the average amount of rainfall over the preceding 11 days.
According to Khan, Punjab has witnessed a substantial surge in rainfall, with a 59% surplus compared to the average, whilst Sindh has encountered a 62% decline in rainfall. Despite the torrential downpour, he confidently stated that there is now no imminent crisis in the rivers.
“The Chenab and Ravi rivers possess sufficient water capacity to accommodate the present rainfall,” Khan asserted, but acknowledging the possibility of some flood conditions occurring in the Chenab River. He stressed that while floods present issues, they can also be advantageous for agriculture.
Khan confirmed that there is currently no occurrence of flooding in any part of the country. He emphasised that the rainfall has been advantageous for agriculture, particularly in regions where rice is cultivated. However, he cautioned that excessive precipitation could have detrimental effects on vegetable and cotton crops.
Additionally, he stated that the Meteorological Department is dedicated to providing farmers with timely information regarding rainfall and its impacts. “We offer predictions regarding the magnitude of precipitation with a lead time of three to four days,” Khan emphasised, highlighting the significance of prompt updates for agricultural strategizing.
Currently, the Meteorological Department has predicted substantial precipitation in several regions of the country today. Precipitation is anticipated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region, upper Punjab, and northeast Balochistan. Islamabad, the capital city, is forecasted to have partly overcast weather with a chance of rain in and around the area.
Current weather conditions in Lahore
Residents of Lahore can expect precipitation in various parts of the city this afternoon. The Meteorological Department has forecasted the formation of ominous clouds, which will be followed by precipitation. The forecast for Thursday in Lahore predicts a minimum temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.
The forecasted precipitation is projected to mitigate the existing high temperatures, resulting in a more agreeable climate for inhabitants in the impacted regions. The Meteorological Department recommends that inhabitants be updated on weather forecasts and take appropriate measures during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Current weather conditions in Karachi
The authority has forecasted that the upcoming period of monsoon rains in Karachi is expected to commence after July 20. The meteorological service has predicted that the city will see partially cloudy conditions with high temperatures and high levels of humidity.
