Heavy rainfall forecast for Balochistan province August 7-9
Category: Transportation
Severity: 2 (Low)
Source: Drum Cussac
08/08/2020 (Pakistan) - The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall across most areas of Balochistan province from Friday evening, August 7, through to Sunday morning, August 9. The heaviest rainfall is expected in the districts of Kalat, Khuzdar, Lasbella, Awaran, Panjgur, Ketch, and Gwadar. The PMD has warned the heavy downpours may generate flash floods, and there are already reports on social media on Saturday, August 8, of villages being inundated, roads being made impassable, and bridges being swept away by floodwaters.
The monsoon rains are being caused by an area of low pressure that will move over Balochistan having hit Sindh province in recent days. Heavy rain on Thursday, August 6, and Friday have left many roads in Karachi inundated. Similar scenes are expected in parts of Balochistan in the coming days.
Context
The country's monsoon season from July through September regularly brings heavy rains, which at times can completely flood the Indus River Basin which runs roughly north to south through the country. Such flooding can prove catastrophic and can result in casualties numbering in the thousands. In general, the country has yet to adequately address the monsoon flooding issue, and national flooding disasters remain common. These events, in addition to high death tolls, can also wipe out major infrastructure and render the country's vital road network impassable. More mountainous areas can experience severe landslides, which have a similar consequence for road networks there.
Individuals in Balochistan are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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