The seventh spell of monsoon rains began on Tuesday raising concerns about potential flooding due to anticipated water releases from India.The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert, warning of flash floods in hill torrents and the risk of urban flooding in cities.According to the forecast, rains are expected to continue from today, with flooding concerns peaking from tomorrow as India is likely to release water over the next three days. 

The PDMA spokesperson said that an extraordinary increase in water levels has been recorded in Indian dams, and Bhakra Dam, Pong Dam and Thein Dam have been filled to 61, 76 and 64 percent respectively. PDMA Punjab, IRSA and the Irrigation Department are monitoring the situation of rivers and dams 24 hours a day.A PDMA Punjab spokesperson reported that the River Indus is experiencing a low-level flood at Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma barrages, while the River Chenab is facing the same at Marala Barrage. The River Sutlej at Ganda Singh Wala is flowing normally with reduced discharge.

The rivers Jhelum, Ravi, and Kabul, along with their tributaries, are maintaining normal flows. However, Nala Dek in Kangra, Narowal, is at a low-level flood, while Nala Bein in Shakargarh, Narowal, is experiencing a medium-level flood.In Lahore, drizzle in the early morning brought relief from humidity as clouds covered the sky and cool winds blew. The Meteorological Department has predicted further rainfall in the next 24 hours. The minimum temperature is expected to be 29°C, with winds blowing at 11 kilometres per hour and humidity at 80 percent.

In Islamabad, pleasant weather prevailed in the morning as cool winds swept through the city. The Met Office forecasts partly cloudy skies with the possibility of rain in some areas.Karachi also experienced overcast conditions and a pleasant breeze. According to the Meteorological Department, drizzle is likely in the city today. The maximum temperature is expected to range between 31°C and 33°C, with winds from the west blowing at 15 to 20 kilometres per hour and humidity at 70 percent.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)