Pre-monsoon rains likely to begin in Punjab from tomorrow: PDMA

The Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has forecast the start of pre-monsoon rains across the province from tomorrow, with rainfall expected to continue in most districts until July 6.

The PDMA spokesperson said rain is expected to hit Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Khushab, Sargodha, Sheikhupura and Narowal.

Additionally, rainfall is expected in Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Pakpattan, Nankana Sahib, Okara, Kasur, Noorpur Thal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Mianwali, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, and surrounding areas as well.

The authority has also warned of a potential risk of urban flooding in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lahore, and Faisalabad.

Following directives from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, an alert has been issued to commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to ensure timely arrangements.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Khan urged the public to stay in safe places to protect themselves from lightning strikes, advising against open areas during thunderstorms. He further cautioned citizens to remain sheltered during heavy dust storms and high winds, and advised tourists to take strict precautionary measures when travelling to northern areas.

A day ago, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a nationwide alert, predicting the onset of the monsoon season during the first week of July 2026.

A weather system, driven by a westerly wave entering the country’s upper regions on the night of June 30, is expected to bring widespread rain, windstorms, and thundershowers, the Met Office said.

According to the PMD, moisture-laden currents from the Arabian Sea are currently penetrating the eastern and central parts of the country, while similar currents from the Bay of Bengal are expected to reach the upper regions by July 2. This weather system is projected to significantly subside the prevailing hot and humid conditions nationwide.