Pakistan is set to experience the season’s first spell of monsoon rains starting today, with heavy downpours expected across multiple regions, according to Deputy Director of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Anjum Nazir.

The initial phase will affect most parts of the country, including Punjab, while Sindh is expected to come under its influence by June 27. In Karachi, thunderstorms accompanied by rain are forecast from June 27 to 29, with particularly intense showers anticipated over the weekend. Authorities have warned of potential urban flooding in the city during this period.

The PMD forecasts that this first monsoon spell will continue through July 2. A second wave of monsoon activity is projected to begin on July 5, likely bringing further rainfall to multiple areas.

In response to the anticipated weather conditions, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an advisory in effect through July 1. All provincial and local authorities have been urged to remain vigilant and fully prepared for any emergencies.

Intermittent rains are expected in several regions, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir. The PMD has warned of the risk of water accumulation in low-lying areas and potential landslides or flash floods in mountainous terrain.

Cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Bagh, Rawalakot, and Muzaffarabad could experience localized flooding due to overflowing streams and heavy rainfall. Similarly, districts including Peshawar, Swabi, Chitral, Dir, Haripur, Karak, Kohat, and Kohistan are expected to receive heavy showers, posing risks of waterlogging and drainage issues.

Rain is also forecast for Gilgit-Baltistan and the northern areas, with chances of thunderstorms and hailstorms at higher altitudes.

In Islamabad and surrounding regions, rainfall has already begun, providing some respite from the heat and making weather conditions more pleasant.

The NDMA has advised citizens, especially those living in flood-prone or low-lying areas, to remain cautious.

Emergency services and disaster response teams have been placed on high alert to handle any crisis that may arise during the monsoon period.