The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its forecast for the upcoming monsoon season across the country.

According to the Met Office, the monsoon is expected to arrive in most parts of Pakistan from July onwards.

During the monsoon season, which spans from July to September, prevailing El Niño conditions and a positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) are anticipated.

Based on these global and regional circulation patterns, the outlook for Pakistan is as follows:

Rainfall

Most areas can expect normal to slightly below-normal rainfall. The northern regions may experience slightly above-normal rainfall, while the western parts of Balochistan are likely to receive near-normal rainfall.

Temperatures

Seasonal temperatures are expected to remain within the normal to higher than normal range across the country.

Hydro-Meteorological Events

Although occasional extreme events over catchment areas cannot be ruled out, which may result in riverine floods in major rivers, the likelihood of urban flooding, hill torrents, and flash floods exists due to isolated heavy downpours.

Snowmelt

The soaring temperatures in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir may accelerate snowmelt, leading to increased water flow into rivers.

However, farmers are advised to remain vigilant and plan water conservation strategies for the upcoming Kharif season cultivation.

The PMD’s forecast provides valuable insights for individuals, communities, and stakeholders to prepare and take necessary precautions during the monsoon season to mitigate the potential impacts of extreme weather events.