PMD issues more rain forecast as floods displace thousands in Punjab

The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) has issued a warning of heavy rainfall and potential high-level flooding in major rivers across Pakistan starting from August 31.

According to the FFD, rainfall is expected in the upper catchment areas of the country’s major rivers from August 29, with the intensity likely to increase by the end of the month.

The division has cautioned that the Sutlej and Ravi rivers may experience high to very high flood levels, while seasonal streams and tributaries of the Ravi and Chenab could witness above-normal flooding within the next 24 hours.

The forecast further indicates that the Chenab River at Head Trimmu could reach very high flood levels by the evening of August 29. At Panjnad, a high flood situation is anticipated around September 2. Meanwhile, the Indus River at Guddu and Sukkur barrages is expected to face high flood levels between September 4 and 5.

Authorities have been urged to remain alert and take precautionary measures in vulnerable areas, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, where riverine and urban flooding risks remain elevated.

The warning comes as parts of Punjab are already grappling with flooding, and water levels in several rivers continue to rise due to ongoing heavy rainfall across the region.