The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory warning of dust storms, windstorms, and heavy rainfall across upper and central Pakistan from June 11 to June 13. A western disturbance and moist currents from the Arabian Sea are expected to trigger flash floods, landslides, and potential infrastructure damage across multiple provinces.
Where and when will the weather occur?
According to the PMD, the weather pattern will approach the upper parts of the country on June 11 and persist through June 13. The system is expected to bring scattered dust storms, windstorms, and thunderstorms to Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and numerous districts throughout Punjab. Affected areas include Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and various districts ranging from Attock to Rahim Yar Khan. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the forecast includes regions such as Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, and Waziristan. Northern areas, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, are also expected to receive rainfall, with isolated heavy downpours and hailstorms likely in locations like Neelum Valley, Skardu, and Muzaffarabad. Northeastern Balochistan and several districts in Sindh—including Sukkur, Larkana, and Dadu—are also expected to experience wind and dust conditions.
What are the primary risks to infrastructure and safety?
The PMD has warned that the incoming weather system poses significant risks to both property and public safety. Strong windstorms, lightning, and hailstorms may damage weak structures, including electric poles, billboards, and solar panels. Meteorological officials have explicitly cautioned that heavy rainfall could trigger urban flooding and flash floods in low-lying areas of major cities, specifically Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Faisalabad. Furthermore, the PMD identified vulnerable hilly areas in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir as being at risk for landslides during the forecast period.
How should residents and authorities respond?
To mitigate potential losses, the Met Office has advised farmers to implement precautionary measures to protect their crops. Tourists and travelers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel while the system is active. Relevant authorities have been advised to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to manage potential emergencies and untoward situations. This advisory follows recent weather activity in the region, such as the rain observed in Islamabad on June 4, which resulted in water accumulation on IJP Road.
