Heavy rain raises urban flooding risk across Punjab, KP

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. File photo
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. File photo
Published August 20, 2026 12:00 AM
ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with urban flooding feared in low-lying areas of Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and other cities.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that several areas could receive heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas.

Lahore, Rawalpindi among areas at risk

Several districts of Punjab are expected to receive rain and thunderstorms.

These include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Kasur and Sheikhupura.

Heavy rainfall is particularly expected in parts of Potohar, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal and Lahore. The PMD warning means residents in vulnerable areas could face water accumulation if heavy rain continues for an extended period.

Urban flooding threat increases

The Met Office has warned of urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Mardan, Swabi, Peshawar, Nowshera, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore.

Heavy rainfall can quickly overwhelm drainage systems in densely populated urban areas. Roads, underpasses and other low-lying locations could be affected if rainwater is not drained quickly.

The National Disaster Management Authority has also identified urban flooding as a major monsoon risk, particularly in metropolitan areas where intense rainfall can put pressure on drainage systems.

KP districts also expected to receive rain

Several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are also likely to experience rain and thunderstorms.

Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Peshawar, Abbottabad and Haripur are among the areas expected to receive rainfall.

The weather could create additional risks in areas already vulnerable to flash floods and water accumulation. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are advised to remain alert as conditions can change quickly during heavy thunderstorms.

Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan may also see rain

Rain is also expected to continue in parts of Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The mountainous regions face additional risks during periods of heavy rainfall.

Also Read: Heavy rain raises concern as Ravi River water level continues to rise

Heavy rain can increase the possibility of flooding in local streams and nullahs, particularly in areas receiving intense rainfall over a short period. Residents in vulnerable areas should remain cautious and follow official weather and emergency advisories.

Flooding feared in streams and nullahs

The weather office has warned of possible flooding in local streams and nullahs in Kashmir, Murree, Galiyat, Islamabad and Rawalpindi. These waterways can rise quickly following heavy rainfall, creating risks for nearby communities and roads.

People living near streams and drainage channels could face greater risks if rainfall becomes intense. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring vulnerable areas and weather conditions.

Landslide risk in mountainous areas

The forecast has also raised concerns about landslides in mountainous areas. Heavy rainfall can weaken slopes and increase the possibility of landslides, particularly in hilly parts of northern Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir.

Travellers using mountain roads may face difficult conditions if heavy rain continues. The NDMA has identified landslides, flash floods and urban flooding among the major hazards associated with Pakistan’s monsoon season.

Residents urged to remain cautious

The expected rainfall could affect daily life, particularly in cities where drainage systems may come under pressure. Motorists should remain careful while travelling through areas prone to water accumulation.

Residents in vulnerable locations should monitor official weather and flood alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather. Authorities may also need to keep drainage channels clear and ensure emergency teams are ready to respond if flooding occurs.

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