Pre-Monsoon Rain Alert in Pakistan Sparks Urban Flooding Warning | Climate Risk

Pre-Monsoon Rain Alert in Pakistan has officially been issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) starting today, June 20, warning of widespread rains across major regions. The alert raises concerns about urban flooding, infrastructure damage, and severe weather impacts—especially in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Sindh.

This warning signals the start of yet another season of climate-induced disasters in one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change.

Forecast Summary: June 20–23 Weather Outlook

According to the PMD‘s advisory, moist currents from both the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea are converging over central and upper Pakistan. A westerly wave is also expected to affect northern parts of the country starting today.

Expected Conditions:

• Rain, wind, and thunderstorms with isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms
• Regions affected:
  • Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad
  • Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, Chitral
  • Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir
  • Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, and Jacobabad (June 22–24)

PMD emphasized that this activity will continue with occasional gaps until June 23.

Urban Flooding and Infrastructure Risks

The PMD warns that urban flooding is highly likely in:

• Lahore
• Gujranwala
• Islamabad-Rawalpindi twin cities

Infrastructure at risk includes:

• Electric poles
• Solar panels
• Trees and parked vehicles

The public has been advised to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms.

Punjab’s Preparedness: Flood Awareness Campaign Begins

In response to the pre-monsoon forecast, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has launched a public awareness campaign.

Key Highlights:

• PDMA projects 25% above-average rainfall this season
• Northeastern Punjab could experience up to 60% above-normal rainfall
• Pamphlets are being distributed to educate citizens about:
  • Flood risks
  • Emergency contacts
  • Safe zones and evacuation tips

“This projection necessitates proactive and coordinated efforts to mitigate risks,” said a PDMA spokesperson.

Climate Vulnerability: A National Challenge

Pakistan ranks among the top ten most climate-vulnerable countries globally, according to the Global Climate Risk Index. The current Pre-Monsoon Rain Alert in Pakistan is just one of many climate-driven warnings issued in recent years.

Recent Climate Events:

• Deadly heatwaves in 2024
• Glacier melt and GLOFs (Glacial Lake Outburst Floods)
• Deforestation and poor urban planning adding to risk

The nation is bearing the brunt of global emissions while contributing less than 1% to global greenhouse gases.

Related Read: UN Climate Reports on South Asia’s Risk Zones (external DoFollow)

Disaster Readiness and Public Advisory

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and PMD have urged the public to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain
• Stay updated through verified weather channels
• Clear drains and rooftops to prevent water accumulation
• Farmers should adjust agricultural activities accordingly

“Timely action can minimize loss of life and property,” said an NDMA official.

Authorities have also advised tourists to avoid hilly areas prone to landslides and flash floods.

Historical Context: Lessons from the 2022 Floods

In 2022, Pakistan faced one of the worst floods in its history, driven by abnormal monsoon patterns and melting glaciers.

The Aftermath:

• 1,700+ deaths
• 33 million displaced
• $35 billion in economic damages
• Over 2 million homes destroyed

The disaster highlighted the need for resilient infrastructure, better early-warning systems, and climate-adaptive governance.

Internal Link: How Pakistan Recovered from the 2022 Floods

Conclusion: Call for Climate Resilience

The Pre-Monsoon Rain Alert in Pakistan is a grim reminder of the urgent need for climate action, public preparedness, and disaster resilience.

While government efforts in Punjab and other provinces signal a proactive approach, the nation still needs:

• Stronger infrastructure
• Data-driven early warning systems
• International climate financing

This monsoon season will once again test Pakistan’s ability to adapt and protect its people in the face of intensifying climate impacts.